ב"ה
ISSUE 1387 SEP 12TH '20
כ"ג אלול תש"פ
פרשת נצבים וילך
PARSHAT NITZAVIM VAYEILECH AVOT 5 - 6
DEAR TORAH TIDBITS FAMILY
A Note from Rabbi Avi Berman page 4
TORAH YERUSHALAYIM
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When one prays with only oneself and one’s own needs in mind, the prayer is not yet complete. The higher potential standard is that one should see oneself absorbed into the collective and pray on their behalf. Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook zt”l, Ein Aya, Berachot Chap. 6, Note 41
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Torah Tidbits Family 04Dear Rabbi Avi Berman Nitzavim Vayeilech 06Parshat Sedra Summary Upon the Year’s End 12Reflections Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb to Renew a Nation 16How Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks The Prophets 22Probing Rabbi Nachman Winkler 24Hak’hel Rabbi Shalom Rosner Close and Personal 26UpRebbetzin Shira Smiles 28AsRabbiBelow,JudahSo Above Mischel Shmuel 30Simchat Rabbi Sam Shor Immersing Utensils Biblical? 32IsRabbi Ezra Friedman Israel 40OUVirtual Schedule To Be A Ba’al Teshuva? 44Better Rabbi Aaron Goldscheider
SLICHOT
People and Collective Responsibility 50One Menachem Persoff Out of a Pledge 52Backing Rabbi Daniel Mann the Childless 54Remembering Rabbi Gideon Weitzman Wine and Kilei Hakerem #3: 56Grapes, Rabbi Moshe Bloom Israel's Youth Centers: Ariel 58OURacheli Amar Ninio Avot Special Summer Series 60Pirkei Rabbi Yosef Ginsberg מזמור שיר חנוכת הבית 62לדוד Rebbetzin Zemira Ozarowski Alone, But Together 66Together, Rakel Berenbaum 70Tiferet Mrs. Leba Schneider in Leadership 74Lessons Rabbi Benji Levy Torah 4 Teens By Teens 76Gavriel Novick // Ari Emmer
REMINDER: Ashkenazi tradition is to begin saying Slichot this Motzei Shabbat. 2
TORAH TIDBITS / NITZAVIM VAYEILECH 5780
CANDLE LIGHTING
OTHER Z'M A N I M
A N D H AV DA L A T I M ES
JERUSALEM CANDLES
6:14 6:32 6:33 6:30 6:31 6:30 6:31 6:31 6:31 6:14 6:30 6:21 6:29 6:31 6:30 6:30 6:32 6:31 6:24 6:29
EARLIEST
NITZAVIM VAYEILECH
5:31 5:34 5:33 5:32 5:33 5:33 5:33 5:33
Yerushalayim / Maale Adumim
5:34 5:33 5:32
Rehovot Petach Tikva Ginot Shomron
5:33
Haifa / Zichron
5:32
Gush Shiloh
5:34
Tel Aviv / Giv’at Shmuel
5:32
Giv’at Ze’ev
5:32
Chevron / Kiryat Arba
5:34
Ashkelon
5:33
Yad Binyamin
5:31
Tzfat / Bik’at HaYarden
5:31
Golan
Aza area (Netivot, S’derot et al)
Beit Shemesh / RBS Gush Etzion Raanana/ Tel Mond/ Herzliya/ K. Saba
Modi’in / Chashmona’im Netanya Be’er Sheva
HAVDALA
7:27 7:28 7:26 7:26 7:27 7:26 7:27 7:27 7:27 7:28 7:26 7:27 7:25 7:27 7:26 7:26 7:28 7:28 7:25 7:25
Rabbeinu Tam (J'lem) - 8:06 pm TImes According to My Zmanim (20 min. before sundown in most cities, 40 min. in Yerushalyim and Petach Tikva, 30 min. in Tzfat/Haifa)
OU Kashrut NCSY Jewish Action JLIC NJCD / Yachad / Our Way OU West Coast OU Press Synagogue/Community Services OU Advocacy OU Israel MOISHE BANE, PRESIDENT OF THE ORTHODOX UNION Howard Tzvi Friedman, Chairman of the Board, Orthodox Union | Shimmy Tennenbaum, OU Israel Chair | Gary Torgow, Chair, OU Kashrus Commission RABBI MOSHE HAUER, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Rabbi Joshua M. Joseph, Ed.D. Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer | Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb, Exec. V.P. Emeritus | Shlomo Schwartz, Chief Financial Officer | Lenny Bessler, Chief Human Resources Officer | Rabbi Dave Felsenthal, Chief Innovation Officer OU KOSHER: Rabbi Menachem Genack, CEO/Rabbinic Administrator OU Kosher | Rabbi Moshe Elefant, COO/Executive Rabbinic Coordinator ISRAEL: Rabbi Yissachar Dov Krakowski, Rabbinic Administrator Rabbi Ezra Friedman, The Gustave & Carol Jacobs Center for Kashrut Education Rabbinic Field Representative Headquarters: 11 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 212-563-4000 website: www.ou.org
Editor Emeritus: Phil Chernofsky Editor: Rabbi Aaron Goldscheider Founders and initial benefactors of aarong@ouisrael.org the OU Israel Center: Advertising: Ita Rochel George and Ilse Falk a"h 02-5609125 or ttads@ouisrael.org Website: www.ou.org/torah/tt www.torahtidbits.com Cover photo by: By Betty Nudler from Jerusalem, Israel - A new Sefer Torah, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=45324928
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RANGES ARE 11 DAYS, WED-SHABBAT 20 ELUL - 1 TISHREI (SEP 9-19 '20) Earliest Talit & T'filin Sunrise Sof Z'man K' Sh'ma
(Magen Avraham: 8:51-8:52am)
Sof Z'man T'fila
5:28 - 5:35am 6:20 - 6:26am 9:28 - 9:29am
(According to the Gra and Baal HaTanya)
10:30am
Chatzot (Halachic noon) 12:36 - 12:32pm Mincha Gedola (Earliest Mincha)1:07 - 1:03pm Plag Mincha 5:34 - 5:23pm Sunset (counting elevation) 6:57 - 6:43pm
Seymour J. Abrams Orthodox Union Jerusalem World Center Avrom Silver Jerusalem College for Adults Wolinetz Family Shul Makom BaLev Birthright Yachad NCSY in Israel JLIC in Israel Pearl & Harold M. Jacobs ZULA Outreach Center The Jack Gindi Oraita Program OU Israel Kashrut
ZVI SAND, PRESIDENT, OU ISRAEL Yitzchak Fund, Former President, OU Israel Rabbi Emanuel Quint z”l, Senior Vice President | Prof. Meni Koslowsky, Vice President VAAD MEMBERS: Dr. Michael Elman | Dr. Simcha Heller | Stuart Hershkowitz | Moshe Kempinski | Sandy Kestenbaum| Harvey Wolinetz RABBI AVI BERMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OU ISRAEL David Katz, CFO, OU Israel | Chaim Pelzner, Director of Programs, OU Israel | Rabbi Sam Shor, Director of Programs, OU Israel Center Rabbi Sholom Gold, Dean, Avrom Silver Jerusalem College for Adults 22 Keren HaYesod <> POB 37015 <> Jerusalem 91370 phone: (02) 560 9100 | fax: (02) 566-0156 email: office@ouisrael.org website: www.ouisrael.org OU Israel, Torah Tidbits does not endorse the political or halachic positions of its editor, columnists or advertisers, nor guarantee the quality of advertised services or products. Nor do we endorse the kashrut of hotels, restaurants, caterers or food products that are advertised in TT (except, of course, those under OU-Israel hashgacha). Any "promises" made in ads are the sole responsibility of the advertisers and not that of OU Israel, the OU Israel Center , Torah Tidbits.
Torah Tidbits and many of the projects of OU Israel are assisted by grants from MISRAD HACHINUCH Dept of Tarbut Yehudit
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DEAR TORAH TIDBITS FAMILY Rabbi Avi Berman Executive Director, OU Israel The other night my wife Pnina and I sat and tried to make order of our childrens’ different school schedules. Baruch Hashem we are blessed with nine children, and the challenges of going back to school during the coronavirus pandemic is intense. We tried to master being logistical directors and organize schedules that differ each week. The older boys are either full time in Yeshiva or in Yeshiva one week and at home learning via zoom the next, but (of course) not the same weeks. One child is off Wednesdays, another Tuesdays and another every other Friday. Each child seems to end a different time every day. Add my wife’s busy schedule as a nurse and my role at the OU, and we have a balagan. We feel extremely blessed to have a large family and our jobs helping people, but just thinking about managing everyone’s schedule’s makes your head spin. Then, I turn on the news and see what’s happening in the world. While at home I have been very focused on the new school year for my kids, in my role at the OU, I was also extremely busy with the Kashrut for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. We were proud to once again send OU Israel’s 4
TORAH TIDBITS / NITZAVIM VAYEILECH 5780
Director of Kashrut, Rabbi Yissachar Dov Krakowski, to kasher and provide high quality supervision and food to the entire delegation of kosher observant delegates from Washington and Israel. This dichotomy of the nitty gritty of daily schedules paired with a historic world event, in which Israel was front and center, sent me a clear picture that Hashem runs the world. It reminded me of what Chazal tell us in Avot D’Rebbe Natan:
”רבן יוחנן בן זכאי אומר אם היתה נטיעה בתוך ידך ויאמרו בוא ונטע את הנטיעה ואחר כך צא,לך הרי לך המשיח )” (אבדר”ן נו”ב ל”א.והקבילו which means that if you are planting a tree when Mashiach comes, you must finish planting the tree before going out to greet the Mashiach. Hashem orchestrated these events to occur in this particular time of the year when we are reading the sheva d’nechemta (7 prophecies of comfort we read between Tisha B’Av and Rosh Hashana). These nevuot focus on Israel becoming the center of the world and all of mankind - Jews and non-Jews alike - recognizing the Almighty and coming back to Israel. As we go into Shabbat, I think about how this week has been another week in which we saw Hashem make the State of Israel more central in the world. It is wonderful to see that while Hashem is doing these
incredible things to change the world, and ultimately bring about the final redemption, He tasked us with continuing to do the small, mundane aspects of our daily schedules.
This week we had a number of meetings discussing additional content and ideas for Torah Tidbits. I’d like to thank each and every one of you who took the time to share your feedback and ideas for Torah Tidbits with myself, Rabbi Goldscheider and the rest of the Torah Tidbits team. You are helping us shape Torah Tidbits and spread Torah around the globe, and your remarks are heartwarming.
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,בצפיה לגאולה שלימה ומהירה Much love,
Avi Executive Director, OU Israel
Mazal Tov
Erel & Tamar Berman on the birth of your daughter To my brother Moe and Liat for becoming grandparents and to my parents Fyvie and Rachel Leah on becoming great-grandparents, again. Avi & Pnina Berman
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NITZAVIM KI TEITZEI VAYEILECH
ALIYA-BY-ALIYA SEDRA SUMMARY Rabbi Reuven Tradburks Director of RCA Israel Region We have the privilege this week of reading two parshiot that combined are only 70 verses, shorter than all but a couple of parshiot. But even with its brevity, the emotional impact of these parshiot is hard to match. Netzavim is always read the Shabbat before Rosh Hashana. The first aliya contains the Brit of Arvot Moav, a covenant sealed in the plains of Moav, just over the Jordan River. All the people are gathered, men, women, children, water carriers and wood choppers. To enter the covenant; that G-d will be our G-d and we will be His people. As was said at Sinai and as was said to the Avot. But the consequence of this special bond is that your disloyalty, your chasing idol worship will be met with Divine wrath. The desolation of this Land because of your unfaithfulness
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TORAH TIDBITS / NITZAVIM VAYEILECH 5780
will be so profound people will look at it and be shocked by its utter desolation. You will be tossed out of this Land. The word Hayom, today, appears 4 times in the 6 verses. As if Moshe is saying, “I am not making this covenant on my today – but for you readers, this covenant is being made on your today.” Also, for those of us Westerners, the rocky, grassless, treeless topography of Israel is jarring to our eye – we are used to grass and trees. Especially as it is the land flowing with milk and honey. Something bad happened to it – mind you, something good is happening to it now that we are back. The second and third aliyot, (30:16, 7-14) is one of the most beautiful paragraphs in the entire Torah. It is so good it is split in the middle, to savor it. It is called the Parshat HaTeshuva, the section of Return. When you are cast out of the land to the 4 corners of the earth, you will take to heart your fate – and return to Hashem. He will return to you, returning to you to gather you from the far flung places. Even if you are at the ends of the earth, He will gather you and take you from there, to bring you back to this land. (this verse appears in the prayer for the state of Israel). And He will implant in you love of Him. And you will return to Him. And He will be thrilled with you because your return is with sincerity, a full heart. The word “return” appears seven times. We to Him. He to us. We
take a step, He steps to us. But our first return is described as “we take it to heart”. Heart murmurings are the beginning of teshuva. And He is our cardiologist, He knows our murmurings, as faint as they may be. And Gives us the strength, the will to build on our deepest pinings. He dances with us, but waits for us to take the first step. Then He gives us more strength and more. Just take that step. The third aliya ends with yet another stunningly beautiful verse: “The Torah is not in the heavens but is very close; it is in your heart.” Moshe chooses to use words in Sefer Devarim that are words of affection. There is lots of love, love of Hashem, lots of heart, all your heart. Words like life, good, cleave to Hashem, today. Moshe does not want to be only the teacher of halacha. He wants to be the teacher of our inner life as well. Our feelings. What he is trying to convey is our deepest sense of our uniqueness. No one knows my heart as I do. Nor my feelings. Well, no one but Him. He created us uniquely because He wants us in this world. So Moshe says – let Him in, with love, with the deepest feelings of your heart, every day. The language is noticeably more emotive than the rest of the Torah. Moshe, as he is departing as leader, and from this world, desperately wants to convey his deepest feelings and to reach our deepest emotions.
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The fourth aliya is the bridge, ending OU ISRAEL CENTER
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Nitzavim, beginning Vayelech. Choose life. Listen to the Mitzvot because they are your life. They are what give life meaning. Then, at the beginning of Vayelech, Moshe speaks of his end. “I am not going with you. Hashem will lead you, Yehoshua, Joshua, will lead you.” Moshe encourages Yehoshua a lot – be chazak, strong, and amatz, mighty. Don’t be afraid. When the President leaves office, he leaves a letter in the desk for the new President. His heartfelt wishes that the new one prevail, perhaps better than he, over the inevitable challenges. The fifth aliya (31:7). After encouraging Yehoshua, Moshe writes down the Torah and we learn the mitzvah of Hakhel – public reading of the Torah every 7 years. Moshe’s tone has switched. From emotion and love, to fear and trembling. Not just fear of the impending war, but fear and awe of Him. We live the dichotomy of feeling Hashem’s hug while being fully aware of His awesome transcendence. The sixth aliya (31:14-24) turns rough. Moshe reiterates that while Hashem will do as He said and bring the Jewish people into the Land of Israel, it won’t end there. The Jews will rebel. And Hashem will
רפואה שלמה טובה אסתר בת לאה מרים צילה בת מרים 8
TORAH TIDBITS / NITZAVIM VAYEILECH 5780
withdraw, will leave the Jews subject to whatever calamities befall them. The greatest theological mystery is contained in one verse: “I will hide My Face from you.” Chilling. The greatest theological challenge, posed in our time by the unfathomable tragedy of the Holocaust, must grapple with this Divine eclipse – Hiding His Face. When and why He Hides His Face. At least in our time we are warmed by the Shining of His Face upon us, we who have returned to His land. The seventh aliya turns to song. When all these calamities occur, read this song (Haazinu). And with that, Moshe completes writing the Sefer Torah and this song.
Parshat Nitzavim Vayeilech A Double Parsha or Not? During the course of the year there is a need to adjust the weekly parshat hashavua in order that certain criteria are met. For example, the Shulchan Aruch (Siman 428) tells us that Parshat Tzav needs to be read before Pesach and Parshat Bamidbar Sinai needs to be read before Shavuot. Therefore, the parshiyot of Sefer Vayikra need to be apportioned based upon how many Shabbatot there are available to them. In a “regular” non leap year, this
needs to be accomplished by reading double parshiyot three times namely: Tazria - Metzorah, Achrei Mot Kedoshim, and Behar - Bechokotai. (The other double portion in such a year is Vayakhel - Pekudei). However, each parsha is still considered to be a separate unit. In the same vein, the Shulchan Aruch continues that Parshat Nitzavim needs to be read prior to Rosh Hashana. And if there happens to be a Shabbat between Yom HaKippurim and Succot, צריכים לחלק נצבים וילך- We must separate Nitzavim and Vayeilech. This seems to show that in a year such as this one where there is no Shabbat between Yom HaKippurim and Succot the portions of Nitzavim - Vayeilech are read as one parsha which encompasses all of what is colloquially known as Nitzavim Vayeilech. As further proof that this week's Torah reading is a single parsha, the Rambam at the end of Sefer Ahava in the Mishne Torah has a list of haftorot for every Parsha. (Obviously not all of them are read every year). Curiously missing from that very inclusive list is the Haftorah for Parshat Vayeilech - seemingly showing us that Parshat Vayeilech is not its own entity, just the latter part of Parshat Nitzavim which is separated if there is a need to do so. Special thanks to Rabbi Amram Rister for this insight.
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STATS Nitzavim - 51st of the 54 sedras; 8th of 11 in D’varim Written on 87 lines in a Torah (rank: 52) 4 Parshiyot; 1 open, 3 closed 40 p’sukim ranks 53 (10th in D’varim) 657 words - ranks 51 (8th in D’varim) 2575 letters - ranks 51 (8th in D’varim) Vayeilech - 52nd of the 54 sedras; 9th of 11 D’varim Written on 72 lines in a Torah (rank: 53) 3 Parshiyot; 2 open, 1 closed 30 p’sukim - ranks 54th (11th in D’varim) 553 words ranks 53rd (10th in D’varim) 2123 letters ranks 53rd (10th in D’varim) Shortest sedra in number of p’sukim; longest p’sukim in the whole Torah.
MITZVOT No Mitzvot in Nitzavim Vayeilech - 2 positive mitzvot
Shabbat prior to Rosh Hashanah. The prophet describes the exuberant joy that the people of Israel will experience with the geulah shlema, the Final Redemption. The analogy is presented in these passages of the joyous celebration of a newly married couple. The haftorah also conveys the notion that one does not await the redemption from a passive position. Rather, exclaims the prophet: “For the sake of Zion I will not remain silent, and for the sake of Jerusalem I will not be still..” Even the stones of Jerusalem should be persistent in anticipation and await the day that glory will be restored and reestablished in the Holy City.
HAFTORAH YESHAYAHU 61:10- 63:9
This remarkable prophecy also recounts the oath that Zion will ultimately be redeemed and the moment when all Jews will praise Hashem in Jerusalem.
With the reading of this haftorah we have reached the final installment of the seven “Haftarot of Consolation.” We have been reading these special selections from the book of Yeshayahu which commenced on the Shabbat following Tisha b’Av and concludes with the
Not only do we as people await anxiously for this day to arrive, the prophet says that Hashem Himself, like a loving Father, shares in the pain and expects this day to quickly come to fruition. At that glorious time the Almighty will be at one with his beloved children.
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Upon reaching the 15th yortzeit of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend,
Dr. Henry Romberg שנה לפטירתו של15 במלאות סבנו וחברנו האהוב, אבינו,בעלי
ד"ר הנרי רומברג
ר' חיים צבי בן אליהו ז"ל We would like to invite you to a commemoration evening in his memory,
via zoom
which will take place on Thursday evening, 29th of Elul, 17/09/20
Program: 20:15
Connecting and mingling
(bring your own snack :-) )
Will speak in his memory (in English):
20:30 20:40 20:50 21:00 21:10
Avi Romberg Dr. Moshe HaLevi Spero Moshe Kempinski Mrs. Ronnie Romberg
Opening everyone’s zoom microphones. Whoever would like to
אנו מתכבדים להזמינכם לאזכרה שתתקיים ביום חמישי אור לכ"ט 17/09/20 ,אלול תש"ף 20:15 בשעה בזום :בתכנית חיבור לזום ונשנושים.התכנסות
20:15
) )-; (כל אחד מביא לעצמו כיבוד
:)ישאו דברים לזכרו (באנגלית
20:30 ד"ר משה הלוי ספירו20:40 משה קמפינסקי20:50 גב' רוני רומברג21:00 - פתיחת מיקרופוני הזום לכולם21:10 אבי רומברג
מי שירצה לדבר ולספר מוזמן
speak and share is more than welcome to.
If you are interested in receiving the link to the meeting, please contact Brachi ahead of time at 0546988146 לקבלת הקישור לזום ביום האירוע נא לשלוח הודעה מראש לברכי OU ISRAEL CENTER
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RABBI DR. TZVI HERSH WEINREB THE PERSON BY OU Executive Vice President, Emeritus IN THE PARSHA
Reflections Upon the Year’s End
I
t is the last Sabbath of this year, and we will shortly usher in the New Year.
Without a doubt, there is quite a bit of sadness attached to this Sabbath, and indeed, to this time of year. Sure, we look forward to a new year with new blessings and new opportunities. But we cannot escape the fact that this year was marked with its frustrations, disappointments, and even, yes, tragedies. It is in a state of physical and spiritual exhaustion that we find ourselves on this last Sabbath of the year. Our energies are spent, our vigor diminished. Amazingly, this mood is especially reflected in the
opening verses of the second of this week’s double Torah portion, Nitzavim-Vayelech (Deuteronomy 29:9-31:30). “Moses went and spoke these words to all Israel. He said to them: I am now 120 years old, I can no longer come and go. Moreover, the Lord has said to me, ‘You shall not go across yonder Jordan.’” (Deuteronomy 31:1-2) Who cannot hear resignation in the voice of Moses, and perhaps even a note of despair? Rashi notes the words of our Sages, who are surely in tune with Moses’ mood when they comment, “The traditions and the wellsprings of wisdom were shutting down for him.” Rabbi Chaim ben Attar, known because of his masterwork Ohr HaChaim as the “saintly” Ohr HaChaim, answers the question raised by the mystical Zohar: “Moses went…? Where did he go?” He suggests that the phrase “Moses went...” signifies that “he felt that his soul was leaving him, and that he was aware that his end was drawing near on that day.” And so, this year is waning, as is the life of Moses. A cloud of sadness envelops us, and though there is the glimmer of the New Year’s light upon the horizon, it somehow feels that there is still a great distance
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between us and that light. I once, in the grips of this mood of sadness during this same time of year, paid a visit to my parents’ grave. This act of homage was consistent with the ancient Jewish custom of visiting the graves of one’s ancestors during the month of Elul, just prior to Rosh Hashanah.
He “goes down before the word,” relying upon the liturgy itself to compensate for his personal limitations As I stood before my mother’s grave, may she rest in peace, it was the fragrance of the sweet holiday meals which she prepared that rose to my nostrils, and the image of her kindling the holiday candles that appeared before my eyes. As I stood before my father’s grave, and he died quite a few years before my mother, I had a different experience entirely. My father was a prayer leader in the synagogue, a baal tefilah, literally a “master of prayer.” I closed my eyes and remembered well standing beside him as he positioned himself before the lectern at the front of the small synagogue in which he habitually prayed. At that poignant moment, there emerged from the recesses of my memory a teaching of the sainted Rabbi Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev. Although I had not seen that teaching in print for many years, at that moment I could recall the text verbatim. OU ISRAEL CENTER
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It was a teaching on the very text which we are now considering: “And Moses went and spoke...” Rabbi Levi Yitzchok pointed out that, when our Sages referred to the prayer leader, they sometimes said, “One goes down before the lectern;” but sometimes they said, “One passes before the lectern.” Rabbi Levi Yitzchak, therefore, distinguishes between two modes of the experience of prayer. In the first instance, the person feels spiritually inadequate, and turns to the words to lead him as he approaches God. Such a person “goes down before the lectern.” This teaching becomes more impactful when one realizes that the Hebrew term for lectern, teiva, also means “word.” He “goes down before the word,” relying upon the liturgy itself to compensate for his personal limitations. In the second instance, on the other hand, we have the person who “passes before the lectern.” This person “leads the words.” He is, in a sense, spiritually independent of the text of the liturgy, so righteous is he. This, writes Rabbi Levi Yitzchok, was the level of Moses through most of his life.
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“However,” concludes Rabbi Levi Yitzchok, “when Moses was at the end of his days and when the fountain of wisdom was no longer accessible to him, he regressed to the level in which ‘words led him.’ This is the meaning of ‘And Moses went and spoke’—that he went to the word, which was above him.” As I stood before my father’s grave, enchanted by Rabbi Levi Yitzchak’s profound insight into the experience of prayer, I realized that my father’s unique talent was his ability to begin the services he led as one who “went down before the lectern”. But then, with the sweetness of his melodic voice and with the passion of his unadulterated sincerity, he rose to a higher level, and not only “passed before the lectern” himself, but inspired others to ascend with him to that higher sphere. As the current year ebbs away, we are overcome by remorse, and we regret our failures and shortcomings. We certainly feel spiritually inadequate. But we can take solace in the fact that we have access to “the words.” In just a matter of days, we will be able to go “down before the lectern,” and allow the sacred words of the High Holiday liturgy to lead us to a higher and purer place. Moreover, we can all be hopeful that we will be inspired, if only temporarily, to rise above the rank of those who “go down before the lectern,” and reach the spiritual heights of those who “pass before it.” Shana tova umetukah; a happy and sweet New Year.
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on the Weekly Parsha from COVENANT & Thoughts RABBI LORD JONATHAN SACKS CONVERSATION
Former Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth
לעילוי נשמות פנחס בן יעקב אשר וגולדה בת ישראל דוד אייז ע״ה עזריאל בן אריה לייב ומעניה בת יצחק שרטר ע״ה Dedicated by Dr. Robert Sreter DDS., M.S.
How to Renew a Nation
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he Talmud gives an ingenious reading to the line, “Moses commanded us a Torah, as a heritage of the congregation of Israel.” Noting that there are 613 commands, and that the numerical value of the word Torah is 611, it says that in fact Moses gave us 611 commands, while the other two – “I am the Lord your God,” and, “You shall
have no other gods beside Me,” (the first 2 of the 10 commandments) – the Israelites received not from Moses but directly from God Himself.1 There is a different distinction the Sages might have made. Moses gave us 611 commands, and at the very end, in Vayelech, he gave us two meta-commands, commands about the commands. They are Hakhel, the command to assemble the people once every seven years for a public reading of (key parts of) the Torah, and “Now write for yourselves this song” (Deut. 31:19), interpreted by tradition as the command to write, or take part in writing, our own Sefer Torah. These two commands are set apart from all the others. They were given after all the recapitulation of the Torah in the book of Devarim, the blessings and curses and the covenant renewal ceremony. They are embedded in the narrative in which Moses hands on leadership to his successor Joshua. The connection is that both the laws and the narrative are about continuity. The laws are intended to ensure that the Torah will never grow old, will be written afresh in every generation, will never be forgotten by the people and will never cease to be its active constitution as a nation. The nation will never abandon 1 Makkot 23b-24a.
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its founding principles, its history and identity, its guardianship of the past and its responsibility to the future.
and learn to fear the Lord your God as long as you live in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess.” (Deut 31:10-13).
Note the beautiful complementarity of the two commands. Hakhel, the national assembly, is directed at the people as a totality. Writing a Sefer Torah is directed at individuals. This is the essence of covenantal politics. We have individual responsibility and we have collective responsibility. In Hillel’s words, “If I am not for myself, who will be, but if I am only for myself, what am I?” In Judaism, the state is not all, as it is in authoritarian regimes. Nor is the individual all, as it is in the radically individualist liberal democracies of today. A covenantal society is made by each accepting responsibility for all, by individuals committing themselves to the common good. Hence the Sefer Torah – our written constitution as a nation – must be renewed in the life of the individual (command 613) and of the nation (command 612).
Note the inclusivity of the event. It would be anachronistic to say that the Torah was egalitarian in the contemporary sense. After all, in 1776, the framers of the American Declaration of Independence could say, “We hold these truths to be selfevident, that all men are created equal,” while slavery still existed, and no woman had a vote. Yet the Torah regarded it as essential that women, children and strangers should be included in the ceremony of citizenship in the republic of faith.
This is how the Torah describes the mitzvah of Hakhel: “At the end of every seven years, in the year for cancelling debts, during the Festival of Tabernacles, when all Israel comes to appear before the Lord your God at the place He will choose, you shall read this Torah before them in their hearing. Assemble the people—men, women and children, and the strangers in your towns—so they can listen and learn to revere the Lord your God and follow carefully all the words of this Torah. Their children, who do not know, shall hear it 18
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Who performed the reading? The Torah does not specify, but tradition ascribed the role to the King. That was extremely important. To be sure, the Torah separates religion and politics. The King was not High Priest, and the High Priest was not King.2 This was revolutionary. In almost every other ancient society, the head of state was the head of the religion; this was not accidental but essential to the pagan vision of religion as power. But the King was bound by the Torah. He was commanded to have a special Torah scroll written for him; he was to keep it with him when he sat on the throne and read it “all the days of his life” (Deut. 17:1820). Here too, by reading the Torah to the assembled people every seven years, he was showing that the nation as a political 2 This rule was broken by some of the Hasmonean Kings, with disastrous longterm consequences.
entity existed under the sacred canopy of the Divine word. We are a people, the King was implicitly saying, formed by covenant. If we keep it, we will flourish; if not, we will fail.
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This is how Maimonides describes the actual ceremony: Trumpets were blown throughout Jerusalem to assemble the people; and a high platform, made of wood, was brought and set up in the centre of the Court of Women. The King went up and sat there so that his reading might be heard … The chazzan of the synagogue would take a Sefer Torah and hand it to the head of the synagogue, and the head of the synagogue would hand it to the deputy high priest, and the deputy high priest to the High Priest, and the High Priest to the King, to honour him by the service of many persons … The King would read the sections we have mentioned until he would come to the end. Then he would roll up the Sefer Torah and recite a blessing after the reading, the way it is recited in the synagogue … Proselytes who did not know Hebrew were required to direct their hearts and listen with utmost awe and reverence, as on the day the Torah was given at Sinai. Even great scholars who knew the entire Torah were required to listen with utmost attention … Each had to regard himself as if he had been charged with the Torah now for the first time, and as though he had heard it from the mouth of God, for the King was an ambassador proclaiming the words of God.3
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Apart from giving us a sense of the grandeur of the occasion, Maimonides is making a radical suggestion: that Hakhel is a re-enactment of the Giving of the Torah at Sinai – “as on the day the Torah was given,” “as though he had heard it from the mouth of God” – and thus a covenant renewal ceremony. How did he arrive at such an idea? Almost certainly it was because of Moses’ description of the Giving of the Torah in Va’etchanan: The day you stood before the Lord your God at Horeb, when the Lord said to me, “Assemble [hakhel] the people to Me that I may let them hear My words, in order that they may learn to revere Me as long as they live on earth, and may so teach their children.” (Deut. 4:10). The italicised words are all echoed in the Hakhel command, especially the word Hakhel itself, which only appears in one other place in the Torah. Thus was Sinai recreated in the Temple in Jerusalem every seven years, and thus was the nation, men, women, children and strangers, renewed in its commitment to its founding principles. Tanach gives us vivid descriptions of actual covenant renewal ceremonies, in the days of Joshua (Josh. 24), Josiah (2 Kings 23), Asa (2 Chron. 15) and Ezra and Nehemiah (Neh. 8-10). These were historic moments when the nation consciously rededicated itself after a long period of religious relapse. Because of Hakhel and covenant renewal, 20
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Israel was eternally capable of becoming young again, recovering what Jeremiah called “the devotion of your youth” (Jer. 2:2). What happened to Hakhel during the almost 2000 years in which Israel had no king, no country, no Temple and no Jerusalem? Some scholars have made the intriguing suggestion that the minhag Eretz Yisrael, the custom of Jews in and from Israel, which lasted until about the thirteenth century, of reading the Torah not once every year but every three or three-and-a-half years, was intended to create a seven year cycle, so that the second reading would end at the same time as Hakhel, namely on the Succot following a sabbatical year (a kind of septennial Simchat Torah).4 I would suggest a quite different answer. The institution of the reading of the Torah on Shabbat morning, which goes back to antiquity, acquitted new significance at times of exile and dispersion. There are customs that remind us of Hakhel. The Torah is read, as it was by the King on Hakhel and Ezra at his assembly, standing on a bimah, a raised wooden platform. The Torah reader never stands alone: there are usually three people on the bimah, the segan, the reader and the person called to the Torah, representing respectively God, Moses, and the Israelites.5 According to 4 See R. Elhanan Samet, Iyyunim beParshot ha-Shevua, 2nd series, 2009, vol. 2, 442-461. 5 Shulchan Aruch, Orach Hayim 141:4, and commentary of Levush ad loc.
most halachists, the reading of the Torah is hovat tzibbur, an obligation of the community, as opposed to the study of Torah which is hovat yahid, an obligation of the individual.6 So, I believe, keriat ha-Torah should be translated not as “the Reading of the Torah” but as “the Proclaiming of Torah.” It is our equivalent of Hakhel, transposed from the seventh year to the seventh day. It is hard for individuals, let alone nations, to stay perennially young. We drift, lose our way, become distracted, lose our sense of purpose and with it our energy and drive. I believe the best way to stay young is never to forget “the devotion of our youth,” the defining experiences that made us who we are, the dreams we had long ago of how we might change the world to make it a better, fairer, more spiritually Elul Exclusive! beautiful place. Hakhel was Moses’ parting gift to us, showing us how it Elul Exclusive! might be done. Shabbat Shalom Covenant and Conversation 5780 is kindly supported by the Maurice Wohl Charitable Foundation in memory of Maurice and Vivienne Wohl z”l. These weekly teachings from Rabbi Sacks are part of the ‘Covenant & Conversation’ series on the weekly Torah reading. Read more on www.rabbisacks.org.
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RABBI NACHMAN (NEIL) WINKLER PROBING BY Faculty, OU Israel Center THE PROPHETS l
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s I sat down to study and analyze this, the last of the haftarot of consolation, it occurred to me how, over these weeks, the comforting messages of Yishayahu describe Israel’s relationship to Hashem in so many different ways. The bond between Nation and G-d is depicted as one of a Shepherd to his Flock (Yishayahu 40;11), as a Mother to her Child (ibid 49;15) and as a Deity to His Worshippers (ibid 50;15). The description includes the relationship of a Ruler to the Nation (ibid 51;17), as a Master to his Subjects (ibid 51;22) and as the Creator to His Creations (54;5). The comparison of the relationship between Hashem and Israel also includes that of a Redeemer to the Redeemed (ibid 54;5), of a Light to the Illuminated and, of course, as a Father to His Children (50;1). This Shabbat’s haftarah speaks of another type of relationship: Um’sos chatan ‘al kallah, yasis ‘alayich Elokayich”, “And G-d will rejoice over you as a groom rejoices over his bride!” Bride and Groom, Husband and Wife, bespeaks a very different kind of relationship as does shepherd to flock or even parent to child, for it demands a mutual responsibility to retain that relationship. HaRav Soloveitchik, zt”l, discusses the rather strange inclusion of the Messianic 22
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vision of Yirmiyahu (10;11), i.e., the promise of “Od yishama b’arei Yehuda… kol chatan v’kol kallah” in the sheva brachot recited under the chuppah and for the seven days of rejoicing. After all, he asks, why connect the personal happiness of the bride and groom with the fulfillment of the messianic vision? The Rav explains that a successful marriage requires the development of a caring for, actually more than that, an empathy with, one’s partner. Throughout our early years we strive for individual fulfillment and look for personal worth. Both are positive attributes. And both are important. Up to a point.
Their own relationship is ennobled as they transcend their personal concerns However, when two people unite as a couple, when they are now a “we” and not simply an “I”, they are challenged to reach out to each other and create an “empathetic friendship” (the Rav’s expression) with each other. At that same time, the identical challenge is presented to them in regard to Klal Yisrael, as well. As adult and full members of the Israelite community the newly married couple is reminded that their empathy is not to
remain solely between each other. Rather, they are meant to involve themselves in a “caring responsiveness” to the needs of others. They must learn to share life’s burdens-the joys and the tragedies-with other members of the community. Such a relationship builds close friendships and sensitizes the soul to the need of those beyond the immediate family. In such a way, says the Rav, their own relationship is ennobled as they transcend their personal concerns. Understanding Rav Soloveitchik’s approach to the Chatan and Kallah will help us understand the message of Yishayahu in our haftarah as well. We cannot feel that our relationship with G-d has been healed-that we can now approach Hashem on the upcoming Yamim Noraim with confidence-unless we learn to empathize with the cares and concerns of others. This year has been an especially difficult one for our people and for all of the world. Human nature is such that we tend to focus on our own trials and our own challenges. But, like a bride and groom who must learn to think of “we” and not “I”, we, before standing in G-d’s presence in tefilla, must also respond to the tragedies and tribulations that have faced all those around us. Our prayers must have meaning in plural as they do when we direct them in the singular. This year, let us open our hearts to the suffering of others and hope that, as the navi promised, Hashem will rejoice over us as the chatan rejoices over his kallah.
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RABBI SHALOM ROSNER
Rav Kehilla, Nofei HaShemesh Maggid Shiur, Daf Yomi, OU.org Senior Ra"M, Kerem B'Yavneh
Hak’hel: Enhancing the Spirituality of Others הקהל את העם האנשים והנשים והטף וגרך אשר בשעריך למען ישמעו ולמען ילמדו ויראו את ה’ אלקיכם )יג: (דברים לא:ושמרו לעש֔ות את כל דברי התורה הזאת Assemble the people: the men, the women, and the children, and your stranger in your cities, in order that they hear, and in order that they learn and fear Hashem, your God, and they will observe to do all the words of this Torah. (Devarim 31:13) The Torah dictates that at the end of every seventh year – the shemita year – the entire nation is to assemble to hear the king read the Torah. This is the mitzva of “hak’hel” (“assemble”). One may have thought that such an inspiring experience, the gathering of the nation to hear the king read the Torah, would be reserved for those above a certain age, who could appreciate this event. Yet, we are told to assemble “the men, the women, and the children”. Will the children benefit from this event? Or will they disturb the spiritual experience 24
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of others? Several commentaries offer explanations for the required presence of the children. The Ramban suggests that the “children” referred to in the pasuk above are children old enough to grasp the magnitude of the moment. They will witness the event and inquire. It will serve as an educational experience and will enhance their awe and reverence of Hashem. There is no reason to bring babies who will not comprehend the significance of the occurrence. The Ramban admits that Hazal relate that there is a requirement to bring young children in order to be rewarded for bringing them,1 yet he doubts that it refers to infants. Rav Natan Adler2 offers an explanation for why Hazal encourage bringing young children, even though it seems that they would just interfere with such a potentially spiritual experience. Anyone who has ever taken small children to a potentially significant spiritual experience can relate. I personally recall what I expected to be a spiritually uplifting visit to Mearat Hamachpela, ended up getting interrupted by having to find a restroom for my young child. However, Rav Adler claims that 1 Hagiga 3a; Rosh Hashana 12b; Rashi to Devarim 31:13. 2 Quoted by Rabbi Matis Blum, in Torah L’Daat (Vagshal Ltd 1984), 463.
the mitzva of hak’hel teaches: “It is better for one to give up a bit of his spirituality in order to raise children in the spirit of the Torah.” Life is not only about enhancing our own spirituality. We have to educate others even if it detracts from ourselves. That’s what we learn from hak’hel: Don’t leave the kids at home. Bring them to the Mikdash. You won’t hear every word, but your kids will get something out of it. A similar idea is derived from an incident at the end of Parashat Yitro. The Torah states: “Moshe descended from the mountain to the people” (Shemot 19:14). Rashi understands this to mean that Moshe did not devote any time to personal matters. Rather, he went from the mountain directly to the people. Why? And what else did he have to take care of? The Likutei Yehoshua (Rav Yehoshua Scheinfeld) tells a story about Rav Yehezkel of Kozmir that provides us with a deeper understanding of this pasuk. The Rebbe was travelling through various Polish towns on Rosh Hodesh Sivan. Although the town he was visiting asked him to stay for Shavu’ot, the Rebbe insisted that he had to return home. He explained his reasoning based on our pasuk. What “business” could Moshe have attended? Not a material pursuit, rather a spiritual pursuit. Moshe just returned from a meeting with Hashem. He could have chosen to be by himself for a few moments, to internalize the conversation, perhaps meditate and enhance his spirituality. Yet, Moshe chose to advance the spirituality of the nation
at the expense of his own spirituality. Based on this, the Rebbe explained, although personally he would benefit from remaining in the town for Shavu’ot, he felt that it would be important for his community’s spirituality to be with them for the hag. The Gemara (Sukka 49b) asks the meaning of the term “Torat hesed”. Isn’t all Torah the Torah of hesed? The Gemara distinguishes: one who learns Torah in order to teach – that is Torat hesed. One who learns not necessarily to teach – that is Torah (absent hesed). Moshe Rabbeinu, the Rebbe par excellence, always placed the interests of Klal Yisrael before his personal interest, including his spiritual growth. At times we are faced with a similar dilemma. Do I sacrifice my own advancement in spirituality in order to enhance the spirituality of my children and those around me? Do I spend an hour at night learning by myself or with a havruta and gaining knowledge, or do I give a shiur so I can transmit Torah to others? May we find the proper balance of strengthening ourselves and those around us in Torah and yirat Shamayim. During this challenging time, we should follow the lead of Moshe Rabbeinu and Rav Yehezhkel of Kozmir and do what we can to enhance the Yamim Noraim of those around us who may be unable to participate in tefilla b’tzibur due to health concerns. We should help enhance the spirituality of others, even at the expense of our own spirituality! OU ISRAEL CENTER
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REBBETZIN SHIRA SMILES Faculty, OU Israel Center
Up Close and Personal
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t is not across the sea nor is it in the heavens, rather it is in our mouths and hearts to do this mitzvah. What mitzvah is the Torah referring to here? The Ramban, among others, asserts that this is the mitzvah of teshuva. What is it about this mitzvah that makes it accessible to each person? Every person has a pintele yid, that spark of connection to the Divine that can never be severed. This is the aspect of ‘Magen Avraham’, the promise that Hashem made to Avraham Avinu that He would always protect this part of us, that we will stay connected eternally. It is from this place that even the greatest rasha and sinner can always return.
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The Beit Yisrael of Gur notes that we see this idea hinted at in the directive of Chazal concerning the punishment of malkot -- 40 lashes. Practically, person who deserves lashes is only given up to 39, not the full 40. In the discussion of the 40 lashes, the Torah calls the person who sinned a rasha. By reducing the number to 39, remarks the Beit Yisrael, we are in effect saying that this sinner is not a complete rasha. There is still a spark of goodness that has yet been untouched, he therefore has the power through his punishment to affect a complete teshuva. The Imrei Emet of Gur reflects that there are 40 days between Rosh Chodesh Elul and Yom Kippur. These days of introspection and repentance correspond to the 40 lashes leading to change and growth. However, the Imrei Emet notes that Chazal refer to the two days of Rosh Hashana as “yoma arichta”, one long day, so in reality we have 39 days not 40.
This is a call to all of us that we are not completely hopeless. No matter how far we have fallen, there is still a part of us connected to holiness that we can access to do teshuva. Teshuva, comments the Rambam, has the power to bring those who were far, close to once again be beloved to Hashem. When a person sins, he and any mitzvot he has done become distanced from Hashem. However, the mitzvah of teshuva is the exception, Hashem always keeps this mitzvah close and available. This, says Rav Schorr in HaLekach Vhalebuv, is one way to understand why the Ramban points to this mitzvah specifically. However far a person is, he possesses the force of teshuva and can return to Hashem, thereby elevating all his actions closer to Hashem. The gift of teshuva is so powerful that even one who just â&#x20AC;&#x153;speaks with intentionâ&#x20AC;? and expresses a desire to do teshuva will have siyata dishmaya enabling the teshuva to penetrate his heart. Since we all have the inner desire to connect, we just need to fan the flames of the eternal spark we have within.
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RABBI JUDAH OU-NCSY MISCHEL Mashpiah, Executive Director, Camp HASC Dedicated L'Iluy Nishmas HaChaver Shlomo Michael ben Meir z'l
As Below, So Above
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ebbe Meshulam Feish HaLevy Lowy of Tosh zy’a (d. 2015), the exalted Tosher Rebbe, was an extraordinary holy man, a towering figure of Avodas Hashem and Kedusha. Beloved for his impeccable midos tovos and unconditional love for every Jew, the Rebbe founded “Kiryas Tosh”, a Canadian shtetl in memory and in honor of the Hungarian city destroyed during the War. One frigid Yom Kippur morning in the Beis Medrash of Kiryas Tosh, a simple, unlearned Jew, a plumber, who had joined davening for the High Holidays, left the room during Mussaf, returning a few minutes later. His hands were streaked with oil and his shirt stained with grease, but he looked very pleased. “Now it won’t be freezing here anymore,” he announced to the others sitting in his section. Proudly, he told them he’d gone to the boiler room to investigate why the heating wasn’t working in the Beis Medrash, and found a problem with the 28
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old oil tank, which he then repaired, and it restarted. Oib ess iz heis inten, s’iz heiss oiben — “If it’s hot downstairs, it will be hot upstairs,” he said. Later that night at the Rebbe’s tish following the fast, someone told the Tosher Rebbe the unfortunate story of this Jew, who was so unlearned that he was unaware that what he had done was completely forbidden according to Halacha. The Rebbe looked pained, but just for a moment. His face then turned radiant, and with his signature sweetness told all of those assembled: “That he doesn’t know is not his fault; he never learned! It’s our obligation to help him, to teach him. But the depth of his words and his intentions, are a message for all of us: Oib ess iz heis inten, s’iz heiss oiben — ‘If we live with warmth down here, if we are on fire with Torah, if our davening is ‘warm’, then we will create warmth in Shamayim as well!”
HASHEM’S PROTECTION This Motza’ei Shabbos, we Ashkenazim join our Sefardic brethren with the recitation of Selichos. At the core of this liturgy, we return over and over again to the refrain of the Yud Gimel Midos, Hashem’s
Thirteen Attributes of Mercy. Following the cheit haMeraglim, the sin of the spies, we experience Divine disappointment in our failure to believe in ourselves and Hashem’s promise to deliver us into the Holy Land. Moshe pleads with Hashem to give the Jewish nation another chance: Selach na l’avon ha’am hazeh k’godel chasdecha, “Pardon, I pray, the iniquity of this Nation according to Your great kindness.” The Torah continues, Vayomer Hashem, Salachti K’devarecha, “And Hashem said, ‘I have forgiven them in accordance with your word.” (Bamidbar, 14:18-20) A fundamental teaching of the Baal Shem Tov zy’a interprets a pasuk in Tehillim, Hashem Tzilcha, “G-d is your protective shadow” (Tehillim 121:5), and sheds ‘light’ on our Selichos liturgy. David haMelech’s phrase also implies that Hashem’s ‘actions’ in the world above are a reflection of our actions below. Physically, our shadow ‘follows us’ and moves whenever we move. Thus whatever we choose and do in this world, the Ribbono Shel Olam, our Shadow, ‘chooses’ and does as well. Rav Shlomo Wolbe zt’l (Alei Shur, Vol. 2) suggests an explanation why a “shadow” acts as an apt metaphor for Hashem’s protection of us. A shadow is unique in that it reflects whatever is held against the light. If our small finger is set before the light, the shadow created will be small. If our whole hand is held up, the shadow is greater. This is a way of framing Hashem’s ‘reaction’ to us in the realm of faith. To the degree that we place our whole trust and
www.DailyMitzvot.org Mitzvot applicable in our times based on the Chofetz Chaim
Rosh HashanahRest from work on the New Year
Hear the sound of the Shofar
reliance in Hashem, the more Hashem will provide what we need. Vayomer Hashem, Salachti K’devarecha…. Rashi says this means Bishvil mah she’amarta, “because (as a result of) of what you said. Selichos helps us prepare us to stand before Hashem, with contrition and sincerity, formally addressing our missteps and shortcomings. We awaken the recognition that Hashem Tzilecha , “G-d is our Shadow,” and is waiting to and willing to forgive us k’dvarecha, ‘according to our words of request’, according to our own will to be forgiven. As we approach the high Holidays, we can pause to consider: how much do we really believe that Hashem is hearing our words and forgiving us? How much significance and importance do we subscribe to our prayers, apology and supplications before Hashem? Are we actually willing to be forgiven and to start our lives anew? For as the well intentioned plumber of Tosh said, Oib ess iz heis inten, s’iz heiss oiben, “If it’s hot downstairs, it will be hot upstairs.” May we believe in Hashem’s fiery love for us above, and in our ability to fix and restart ourselves below. OU ISRAEL CENTER
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SIMCHAT SHMUEL
BY RABBI SAM SHOR
Program Director, OU Israel Center
T
his coming Motzai Shabbat, we Ashkenazim begin to recite Selichot in preparation for Rosh HaShana and the Aseret Yemei Teshuva (our Sephardic brethren have been reciting Selichot throughout this entire month of Elul). Traditionally this period of Selichot is filled with a real sense of community, of belonging to something bigger than ourselves, as we gather together to recite Selichot as a tzibur. Unfortunately, it seems that aspect of the Selichot experience will be absent this year. I’d like to focus on one short passage that we will recite many times during this period as part of the daily Selichot . V’Zacharti et Briti Yaakov, V’Af et Briti Yitzchak, V’Af et Briti Avraham Ezkor, V’Haaretz Ezkor- And I will remember my covenant with Yaakov, and also my covenant with Yitzchak, and also my covenant with Avraham, I will remember, and the Land I shall remember...
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There are numerous questions to be asked about this verse. Why are the Avot listed in reverse chronology? What does it mean that Hashem will remember the covenant with each of the Avot? What does it mean that Hashem will remember the Land of Israel? Rav Yaakov Moshe Charlap, zt’l, one of the talmidei muvhakim of Rav Kook zt’l, offers a beautiful explanation of our verse, about both it’s reverse chronology, and the reference to Hashem remembering the Land (Sefer Mei Marom-chelek Nimukei Hamikraot).
For this reason alone Hashem will bestow upon us His compassion If Am Yisrael merits to personify the values of Yaakov Avinu, who represents the coming together of the legacies of all three generations of our illustrious Avot and Imahot, then they certainly will be deserving of redemption. Even if we don’t fully live up to this level
represented by Yaakov Avinu, but simply exhibit the character trait of mesirut nefesh-personified by Yitzchak Avinu, the willingness to risk everything to sanctify Hashem for the sake of Am Yisrael, we will also be recalled and deserving of redemption.
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And even if chas v’shalom none of these important character traits are present, and the only merit that we possess is that we have returned to live in the Land, and revive the ruins and build once again on our illustrious history, even if that is seemingly the only merit we possess, for this reason alone Hashem will bestow upon us His compassion and allow us to return to Him, and His Torah HaKedosha V’Haaretz Ezkor.
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As we prepare to recite these words each day throughout the Selichot period, may we be reminded of the many merits we each possess, the many fine character traits we have learned from the illustrious generations who came before us, and gain strength in reflecting on the past century of incredible growth and transformation for Am Yisrael, here in Eretz Yisrael - V’Haaretz Ezkor. May we indeed merit through each of these treasured legacies to continue to receive Hashem’s unending compassion, and may we merit to finally experience the Geula Shleima we have been waiting for, for far too long....Ketiva V’Chatima Tova. OU ISRAEL CENTER
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OU KASHRUT RABBI EZRA FRIEDMAN PAGE BY Director, The Gustave & Carol Jacobs Center for Kashrut Education
Is Immersing Utensils Biblical?
T
o understand the root of any halacha in Torah, we look at the source, which is either deorayta (from the written law), derabanan (oral law) or a minhag (custom). The status of a halacha is critical in understanding the logic behind Jewish law as well as its applications and expansions, which are all derived from the source. Regarding tevilat keilim (immersing utensils), the applications of who may immerse utensils is determined based on whether the source is deorayta or derabanan. The Talmudic discussion of tevilat keilim is found in Tractate Avodah Zara (75B). The Gemara brings a verse from Bamidbar (31:23):
ְט ֵה֔ר ַא ְ֕ך ְּב ֵמ֥י נִ ָּד֖ה ָש ו ֙ ֲׁב֤יר ּו ָב ֵא ִ ֲשר־ָיבֹ֣א ָב ֵאׁ֗ש ַּתע ׁ ֶ ל־ד ָב֞ר א ָּ ָּכ ֲב֥יר ּו ַב ָּֽמיִם׃ ִ ֲש֧ר ֽלֹא־ָיבֹ֛א ָּב ֵאׁ֖ש ַּתע ׁ ֶ י ְִת ַח ָּט֑א ְוכֹ֨ל א Everything that passes though fire, you shall make it go through the fire, and it shall be clean: nevertheless it shall be purified with the water of sprinkling and all that does not pass through the fire shall you make to go through the water. 32
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The source for immersion of utensils comes from the word “( ”וטהרcleaned or purified). The verse comes to teach that after one kashers (the process of removing the non-kosher remnants) a utensil, it requires immersion in a kosher mikveh. Most early authorities (Rashi, Rashba and Or Zarua) refer to this Gemara as a proof that the mitzvah of tevilat keilim is based in biblical law (deorayta). Other authorities argue that the application of the verse is not direct, but rather is a reference that is derived by our Sages. According to this opinion, the obligation to immerse utensils is rabbinic in nature (Ramban, Tosfot Rid). Authorities also disagree regarding the Rambam’s opinion (see Kesef Mishna, Ma’acholot Asurot 17:5). The practical applications between these two opinions relate to two major halachic situations. The first is in regards to a child below the age of bar or bat mitzvah immersing a utensil. In general, children are not relied upon to carry out mitzvot that are biblical in nature. Authorities explain that since a child is not always responsible, a child may not be sent on his own to burn chametz or to set up an eruv. However, regarding rabbinic mitzvot, there may be room to be lenient as the level of obligation is lower. Another application of this dispute is regarding utensils used as collateral. There is a
The OU Israel Gustave & Carol Jacobs Center for Kashrut Education was created to raise awareness and educate the public in all areas of Kashrut in Israel. Rabbi Ezra Friedman, a Rabbinic Field Representative for the OU is the Center's director.
dispute regarding who is the owner of property used as collateral for a loan or business agreement. Regarding the immersion of utensils used as collateral, the Gemara (Ibid) discusses whether a utensil which was given to a Jew by a non-Jew as collateral has to be immersed before use. Is the utensil considered the property of the Jew regardless of its status as collateral, thus requiring immersion, or is it exempt, since it can still be considered the property of the non-Jew? If the mitzvah to immerse utensils is biblical, then the halacha would be stringent and require immersion before use. However, if the mitzvah is rabbinic, then there is room to be lenient and exempt the utensil from immersion. Both topics - immersion by children and immersion of utensils used as collateral are found in the Rav Yosef Karo’s Shulchan Aruch, in which he rules (YD 120:14) that children below the age of bar and bat mitzvah are not trustworthy regarding tevilat keilim. In his Beit Yosef he cites the Trumat Deshen (257) as the source to not rely on children, as the immersion of utensils is of biblical status. Regarding utensils used as collateral, the ruling (YD120:9) is that immersion is required.
רפואה שלמה יהודה מאיר בן יקירה
This is based on the Rashba (Responsa 3:255) who states that since tevilat keilim is deorayta, we are stringent in cases of doubt with biblical commandments. It is apparent from these two rulings that Rav Yosef Karo’s holds that immersion is biblical in nature (see Taz YD 120:16 and Shach YD 120:21). Another interesting application is the immersion of utensils by a Jew who does not generally keep mitzvot. There is a general rule that in halachic matters a non-religious Jew cannot be relied-on to properly perform or adhere to halachic standards. The question would apply to a worker who is not religious immersing utensils for an establishment. If the source of the mitzvah is rabbinic, there might be room to be lenient and allow a non-religious worker to immerse utensils. However, most authorities rule that tevilat keilim biblical, and that a non-religious worker would therefore not be permitted to perform this task unsupervised. Regarding tevilat keilim the OU is stringent that either a religious mashgiach immerse the utensils or that he be present to supervise the process.
Kashrut Questions in Israel? Call or Whatsapp Rabbi Friedman at 050-200-4432 OU ISRAEL CENTER
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Yeshurun Central Synagogue, The Jerusalem Great Synagogue & OU Israel proudly present
TESHUVA IN TROUBLED TIMES: “Doing good” vs “Doing No Harm”
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Rosh Hashana Cooking Demo with Torah Insights Join us virtually as four special women present their Rosh Hashana recipes, alongside words of Torah and inspiration. https://zoom.us/j/85706073239 Go to www.ouisrael.org/rhrecipes to register and receive a list of ingredients OU ISRAEL CENTER
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FROM STAGE TO THE SCREEN
The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Performance Community of Jerusalem and OU Israel present
THE EPIC HISTORICAL MUSICAL
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New weekly Parsha shiur with Rav Meir Goldwicht Rosh Yeshiva at Yeshiva University WEDNESDAYS, 8:30PM ISRAEL TIME
Shiur will be given in easy Hebrew Great chance to improve your Hebrew and be inspired at the same time!! https://us02web.zoom. us/j/2244321902 OU ISRAEL CENTER 36
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VIRTUAL MOTHER-DAUGHTER PRE-SUKKOT EVENT
CHAVRUSA LEARNING + MINI-SHIUR/DISCUSSION + ART PROJECT
Women Reaching Higher
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 7:00PM
Recommended for girls aged 9-12 Register (FREE) at ouisrael.org/sukkotmd and we’lll send you details LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
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VIRTUAL TISHREI SEMINAR FOR WOMEN SPOTLIGHT ON SUKKOT Wed. September 30, Tishrei 12, 9:00AM - 1:00PM In loving memory of Mrs. Linda Pruwer-Brachfeld a”h מרת חיה סאשא בת ר’ יוסף הלל 9:00 – 9:15 Opening Remarks Zemira Ozarowski
11:00 – 12:00 Not Perfect but Definitely Wonderful –Lessons of Sukkot Personal Story with Jodi Samuels
9:15 -10:15 Spectacular Sukkos Rebbetzin Shira Smiles 10:15-11:00 Esrog and Lulav: Tying the Mitzvah to You Sara Rotenberg
12:00 -12:45 The Secrets of Shemini Atzeret Miriam Brodersen
For more information and to register - www.ouisrael.org/tishrei2020 Join us at https://zoom.us/j/87469121375
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OU Israel at SUN, SEP 13
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Mrs. Shira Smiles Torah Tapestries (L’Ayla) https://zoom.us/j/98629920642
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The Giants who Shaped Modern Orthodoxy https://zoom. us/j/403831319
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Rabbi Shmuel Herschler Ethics, Family and Society in the writings of Rav Hirsch, Rav Kook and Rav Soloveitchik https://zoom. us/j/81925157325
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Men’s Gemara Chabura https://zoom.us/j/887981820
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Tefillot of Yamim Noraim https://zoom.us/j/85177782268
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Food for Thought: Rosh Hashana Cooking Demo with Torah Insights https://zoom. us/j/85706073239
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in the comfort of your Home WED, SEP 16
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Elul Tanach Midrasha THURSDAYS, 9:15AM STARTING SEPT. 3
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To Our Dear Devoted Transporters, Distributors, Volunteers, and Readers, It is one thing to produce a publication but it is so necessary to be able to get it out to the general public. Through your tireless efforts each week, we accomplish this. We have been successfully able to accomplish this task... over 10,000 copies a week and the number is rising. People are happily receiving Torah Tidbits all over the country from north to south and from east to west.
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of the TT volunteers distribution team when you pick up the TT's at the Israel Center and make sure they get to shul or to your outdoor minyan or to the makolet for people to pick up!
You are an important part of the TT volunteer distribution team if you pick up an extra copy for your neighbor's mailbox....
The TT staff thanks you all for helping make this OU project so successful. All our best wishes for a shana tova in good health. May we all be reunited at the OU Israel Center soon. Looking forward to a long and happy relationship.
All the best, Arlene S, Toni C. and the TT staff
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RABBI AARON Editor, Torah Tidbits GOLDSCHEIDER
Better To Be A Ba’al Teshuva?
T
he word shuv, ‘turn’ which alludes to the idea of teshuva, occurs seven times in a single section in parshat Nitzavim (30:1-10). To cite one example, the pasuk says: “And you will return (ve’shavta) to Hashem your God and listen to his voice…” (30:2) The Torah on the heels of this passage states the following directive (30:11-14): “For this commandment that I command you today - it is not hidden from you and it is not distant...rather the matter is very near to you - in your mouth and in your heart - to perform it.” Which mitzvah, per se, is the term “this commandment” referring to? The Ramban offers two answers: First, it refers to one particular mitzvah, the topic spoken of at length in the prior ten verses, namely, the obligation of a Jew to engage in Teshuva. The other possibility is that ‘this commandment’ refers to a more general category, namely, to know and fulfill all of the Torah. Although the 44
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word mitzvah, commandment, is in the singular form, it refers to all the mitzvot of the Torah. Perhaps the Ramban states both answers because these are not mutually exclusive ideas. In other words, teshuva is not merely a response to a single shortcoming or transgression, rather, teshuva, often requires an overall reassessment or adjustment regarding one’s life direction and goals. Arguably, this notion is borne out by the text of the Torah itself: In the paragraph which immediately follows the Teshuva passage (30:15-20) a new word takes center stage - chayim, life (six times). Apparently, the Torah is expressing the notion that teshuva is essential to crafting and developing every area of our lives. Teshuva is part and parcel to what it means to live a life of meaning and purpose. As Rav Kook writes in his introduction, “Teshuva is the essential component in the Torah and in life.” (Introduction, Orot HaTeshuva)
“התשובה היא תופסת את החלק היותר גדול בתורה ) אורות התשובה,ובחיים” (הקדמה In this context let us examine a fascinating argument in the Talmud. Two eminent sages debate the following: ‘Who is greater, the Tzaddik or the Ba’al Teshuva?’ The more obvious answer would presumably
be the tzaddik. After all, this person has lived their entire life loyal to the Torah and in observance of the mitzvot. And yet, the Talmudic sage Rabbi Abbahu posited that the ba’al teshuva is the greater of the two. This well known position is famously stated with the following phrase: “In the place where penitents (ba’alei teshuva) stand, even the full fledged righteous do not stand.” (Berachot 34b). How are we to conceptualize the unique virtue of the ba’al teshuva in that he surpasses the full fledged righteous? Let us examine the penetrating approaches of three titans of Jewish thought: The Rambam, The Ba’al HaTanya and Rav Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook zt”l. All three luminaries are working off of the Talmud’s discussion cited above. It is noteworthy that the Rambam codifies the position of Rabbi Abbahu, which he rarely does when the Talmudic sage argues with his colleague Rav Chisda. (Hilchot Teshuva 7:4). The ba’al teshuva is superior for the following reason, says the Rambam: “He has great reward for he has tasted sin and yet, separated himself from it, conquering his evil inclination...the level of the ba’alei teshuva transcend the level of those who never sinned at all, for they overcome their evil inclination. In other words, the ba’al teshuva is rewarded for his dedicated efforts and personal sacrifice. It does not always come easy for him. The elevated level he has achieved required heroic strength and ardent conviction; concomitantly, maintaining his spiritual achievements
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require constant vigilance and effort. In this way he stands significantly above the personality whose commitment is second nature and organic. While the Rambam emphasizes the enduring battle the ba’al teshuva endures in order to achieve his commitment, the Baal HaTanya spotlights another remarkable quality of the ba’al teshuva. In contrast to the Rambam, the first Rebbe of Lubavitch speaks of the excitement, enthusiasm and passion that is the hallmark of the ba’al teshuva. This is what makes his service to God remarkably impressive.
There are categories beyond the status of tzaddik, such as yesharim, chassidim, kedoshim, which often identify a level of achievement beyond a tzaddik The Baal HaTanya states this approach (Likutei Amarim chapter 7); He emphasizes the fervor and love that emanates from the ba’al teshuva’s heart and soul. Such a person now longs for God with deep passion and with “clinging.” The Rebbe, very beautifully and poetically, describes this type of return as, “A thirsting for God like a parched and barren soil thirsting desperately for water...his soul had been a barren wilderness and in the shadow of death... his soul [now] thirsts for God even more intensely than the soul of the righteous 46
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who never sinned.” In a word, the tzaddik due to his consistency, often lacks the penitent’s yearning for God. Indeed, the Baal HaTanya apparently was influenced by the writings of the founder of Chassidut, the Baal Shem Tov. Addressing the Talmudic teaching: “In the place where those who have repented stand, even the perfectly righteous cannot stand” the Ba’al Shem Tov conveyed the following: Good deeds and Torah study can become habitual for a righteous person, and he does not have that much feeling for them. But when a person comes back, everything is new. If he does not do everything with great attachment, he will fall from his level. He is therefore forced to worship with great enthusiasm.” (Or Torah, Toledot, quoted by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan, The Light Beyond, p.335) A third explanation regarding the unique status of the ba’al teshuva was posited by the first Chief Rabbi of Palestine, Rav Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook zt”l. Addressing this issue in his beloved work, Orot HaTeshuva (14:36) the eminent Rav opens with an enigmatic statement: “When a person wants to be a perfect tzaddik (tzaddik gamur) it is difficult for him to be a person who engages in teshuva (ba’al teshuva).”
קשה לו להיות,“כשאדם רוצה להיות דוקא צדיק גמור )לו:בעל תשובה (אורות התשובה יד The term in gamur, whole, in this context may allude to the idea that such a person is gomer, ‘finished’ or ‘full.’ In other words, the tzaddik gamur has concretized his spiritual station. This individual feels
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that he has attained a certain level and now is comfortable in that standing. Unfortunately such a person, although ‘righteous’, is lacking an integral element in religious life, namely, yearning and growth. Attaining the status of ba’al teshuva, in the eyes of Rav Kook, is the objective for every person - no matter what level they have attained. Ba’alei teshuva never rest on their laurels. On the contrary, such people feel responsible to exert themselves, broaden their religious horizons, and attain higher levels of righteousness. Indeed Rav Kook further argues that such a person who advances along this pathway attains a level as high as tzaddikim, or even higher. In Rav Kook’s words: “...then his teshuva can raise him upward to the level of perfect tzaddikim - and even higher than that.” (Orot HaTeshuva 14:36). One may be perplexed by this assertion of Rav Kook and ask,”Is there a level that can be attained beyond the category of ‘tzaddik’?” Apparently there is. A classic definition of a tzaddik is an individual whose mitzvot outweigh their aveirot.
There are categories beyond the status of tzaddik, such as yesharim, chassidim, kedoshim, which often identify a level of achievement beyond the status of a mere tzaddik (see for example the Shabbat shacharit, in ‘Shochen Ad’ prayer which lists these titles in ascending order). Returning to parshat Nitzavim, the juxtaposition of the recurrent terms - shuv and chayim - serves to emphasize that Teshuva is not something we engage in for a few days each year or a particular time on the calendar. Rather, teshuva is a frame of mind. It is a constant. The true ‘Master of Teshuva’ steadily sets new goals, and continuously develops and builds their inner life: experiencing each day to the fullest. The following delightful Chassidic story captures the above teaching. Rabbi Yitzchak of Skvira, a grandson of Rebbe Nachum of Chernobyl (1730-1787) shared this about his grandfather: “In a small town, not far from Chernobyl, several chassidim of my grandfather’s were seated together at the conclusion of the Shabbos. They were all honest and devout men and at this Melava Malka meal they were casting accounts
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of their souls. They were so humble and so full of fear of God, that they thought they had sinned very greatly - and that their only consolation was that they were utterly devoted to the great tzaddik Rebbe Nachum, and that he would uplift them and redeem them. Then they decided that they must immediately go to their Master. They started out right after the meal and together they went to Chernobyl. But at the end of that same Shabbos, my grandfather was sitting in his house and casting the accounts of his soul. Then in his humility and fear of God, it seemed to him that he had sinned very greatly and that there was only one hope for him: that those chassidim, so earnest in their service of God, and who were devoted to him, would comfort him.
The grandson concluded his story by saying: “Two halves fused together form a perfect ring.” (Based on ‘Tales of the Chassidim’, Martin Buber p172-3) “Choose life so that you will live” (Devarim 30:19). These aspiring words which appear at the peak of our parsha encompass a great ideal: Continual growth and self improvement must propel our days. As a result of such strivings we experience the utter joy of ‘living’- chayim. The Torah is teaching that a person should be filled with the yearning to bring one’s dreams of personal greatness to reality.
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DIVREI MENACHEM
BY MENACHEM PERSOFF
Special Projects Consultant, OU Israel Center mpersoff@ou.org
One People and Collective Responsibility
P
arshat Nitzavim opens with Moshe telling the people, “You are standing today – all of you – before the Lord your God.” Moshe then spells out what is meant by “All of you”; he refers to everyone, from the heads of the tribes to the drawers of water. It seems appropriate that we read this portion in the days leading up to the Yamim Nora’im. For we might recall that soon we will all be standing equally before Hashem to admit our trespasses and to pray for Hashem’s mercy. That is to say, rabbis, community heads, judges, and politicians, as private individuals, they all share something in common with the rank and file. The Parsha teaches us that without exception, we were all present to receive and adhere to the Brit – the Covenant established between G-d and the people. The corollary is that whatever our status in society, we are all collectively and individually responsible for our actions and, indeed, for the deeds of others. 50
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In truth, the Torah narrative refers specifically to those who reject Hashem’s teachings and turn to idol worship. But insofar as egotistical behavior negates the will of Hashem, self-absorption is a form of idol worship: For the idol is now what I want, what I believe in, what gives me gratification.
Moshe indicates that a person who is so full of his own opinions that he can afford to ignore the Torah’s teachings says, “I shall have peace.” One explanation is that such people tend to think (erroneously, of course) that the punishments eked out to the righteous for their sins will atone for them too. Moshe further implies that such people are so intoxicated with the righteousness of their ways that they “add drunkenness to their thirst.” Rashi explains that when drunk, one acts Beshogeg (unintentionally, impetuously), while when quenching one’s thirst, one’s actions are purposeful and directed (Bemeizid). The Torah, however, through Moshe’s lips, tells us that Hashem will ultimately judge that indignant person whether or not his actions are “accidental” or purposeful.
Later in the narrative appears the well-
known phrase that “The secret things belong to the Lord our God.” Concerning this difficult axiom, Rashi addresses the possibility that the people as a whole might suffer for the sins of a single individual whose thoughts and intentions were never revealed. Rashi explains, however, that our purpose is to deal with what we know, namely, that which has been disclosed to us, because “those things…belong to us and our children forever” (Devarim 29:28). One conclusion we might draw from this discussion is that now, more than ever, we might ask ourselves if we are relating to possible messages of the Coronavirus. Have we taken enough care to correct the “illnesses” that plague our people? Are we taking care to remind ourselves that we are one people, irrespective of our external status or position in the hierarchy of leadership in society? And, finally, are we taking enough care to check that our activities, however seemingly well-intentioned, have not harmed, or are not compromising, our fellow citizens and society as a whole? Shabbat Shalom!
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FROM THE VIRTUAL DESK OF THE
OU VEBBE REBBE RAV DANIEL MANN
Backing Out of a Pledge to a Jewish School Question: May one decide not to go through with his donation pledge to a Jewish school? If so, must he take steps such as hatarat nedarim? Answer: Your question is general, as will be the focus of our answer. Realize that details can make a big difference. Pledges of a gift can obligate on various tracks. One follows rules of monetary laws: Only after a kinyan (act of finalization) to obligate himself or transfer an item can the gift be enforced. However, if one asserts that he will give his friend a modest present, he has a halachically recognized moral obligation to do so (Bava Metzia 49a). When the intended recipient is poor, the moral obligation exists even for a significant present (Rama, Choshen Mishpat 243:2). In that case, the basis of the moral obligation is “religious,” under the laws of oaths (nedarim) (Yerushalmi, Bava Metzia 4:2; Shut Harama 47). Indeed the idea of nidrei tzedaka is derived (Nedarim 52
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7a) from a pasuk on oaths (Devarim 23:24). Jewish schools that promote Torah values and observance are considered a proper recipient of tzedaka funds (see our article of Va’eira 80). Each element has rules as to when it applies and why a pledge might not be binding. When one becomes obligated based on neder, he can often (see one of the exceptions in Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh Deah 228:21) remove the neder with hatarat nedarim – he professes regret about having made the oath, and the assembled “court” can uproot it. The neder part of a pledge to tzedaka can similarly be undone (Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh Deah 258:6); the process is called sh’eila. However, the fact that this neder is for the direct benefit of the worthy recipient, and thus backing out erases his rights, impacts in a few ways. For one, once the donation reaches the gabbai, the pledge cannot be undone (ibid. see Arachin 6a). This largely parallels the rules of kinyan, as the gabbai is considered “the hands of the poor” (see Tosafot ad loc.; Bava Kama 36b). Also, while she’ila can work if done, poskim warn not to agree to nullify the pledge (Shut Haradbaz IV:134; Pitchei Teshuva, YD 258:8). However, this idea does not totally shut the door to undoing the vow. In the parallel discussion of nidrei hekdesh, the Shulchan Aruch and Rama (YD 203:4) say that one should do
The Orthodox Union - via its website - fields questions of all types in areas of kashrut, Jewish law and values. Some of them are answered by Eretz Hemdah, the Institute for Advanced Jewish Studies, Jerusalem, headed by Rav Yosef Carmel and Rav Moshe Ehrenreich, founded by HaRav Shaul Yisraeli zt”l, to prepare rabbanim and dayanim to serve the National Religious community in Israel and abroad. Ask the Rabbi is a joint venture of the OU, Yerushalayim Network, Eretz Hemdah... and OU Israel’s Torah Tidbits.
hatarat nedarim only in the case of dochak (roughly, pressure or difficulty). Therefore, for example, if a rich person pledged a large donation and before giving it, he lost his wealth to the point that it is not feasible to follow through, there are grounds for sh’eila. Another scenario in which a pledge does not have to be fulfilled is when it was based on a mistake (ta’ut or shegaga). The concept that ta’ut nullifies obligations/ agreements applies both to monetary matters and to nedarim (see Shulchan Aruch, YD 232:6). In such cases, hatara is not even necessary. It is not always clear when the mistake is definite or significant enough to void the obligations. One of the cases in the Rama (ibid.) is a slip of the tongue regarding currency (e.g., stated $1,000 when he meant 1,000 NIS). The Chatam Sofer (Shut YD 237) talks about a more subtle case – the donor thought the recipient’s needs were well beyond their true level. The Shvut Yaakov (I:72) discusses one who promised to support a group of ostensibly righteous Torah learners, and it turned out that many of them were far from righteous. He demonstrates that in principle this is a ta’ut, but in practice one should be cautious before reneging. The two latter sources both suggested being on the safe side by doing hatara even in cases in which they should not need it. Tzedaka
U’mishpat 4:76 discusses at length cases of ongoing commitments in which over time things changed for the recipient (e.g., became rich, died) that changed the rationale for the donation. In summary, a pledge to a Jewish school is generally binding, but practically there may be reasons why it is not. In an actual case, one should carefully discuss the specific details with a rabbi who can help put the facts and the halacha in proper perspective.
Having a dispute? For a Din Torah in English or Hebrew contact ‘Eretz Hemdah - Gazit’ Rabbinical Court: 077215-8-215 • fax: (02) 537-9626 beitdin@eretzhemdah.org
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Puah for Fertility and RABBI GIDEON Machon Gynecology in Accordance with Halacha WEITZMAN
Remembering the Childless
W
hile there are many themes related to Rosh Hashanah, one of the most powerful and ubiquitous is the theme of having children. This is so integral to the message and nature of the day that the Gemara (Rosh Hashanah 11a) tells us that on Rosh Hashanah Sara, Rachel and Chana became pregnant. The Talmud deduces this from the verses “God remembered Rachel” (Bereishit 30:22) “God remembered her” (Shmuel I 1:19) “God remembered Sara” (Bereishit 21:1). Rosh Hashanah is called by the Torah a ‘Day of Memory’ (Vayikra 23:24) and this memory is related to remembering those who are in need of a special Divine salvation. On Rosh Hashanah we have the opportunity to come close to God and ask for our deepest needs and desires to be fulfilled. This is felt strongly by those who have no children or who are struggling with fertility challenges. And this was the case since the beginning of the Jewish people. Rosh Hashanah was a day for remembering and a day on which God remembers those who could have been forgotten, those who need to be remembered.
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The Torah portion chosen for Rosh Hashanah is in keeping with this theme; we read of the birth of Yitzchak after many years of infertility. The Haftarah relates Chana’s challenge of having a child and the eventual birth of Shmuel. The Haftarah of the second day speaks of Rachel’s endless tears in seeing her children being led into exile. She will stop crying when her children return back home to their Land, the Land of Israel. In the next verses the entire Jewish people are described as being “a dear son” (Yirmiyahu 31:19) whom God recalls and thinks of constantly. Birth, having children, raising children, and developing hopes and dreams for our children are integrally connected to our prayers for the coming New Year. Children are our future, and we are willing to go to great lengths to ensure that we have a good future by investing in our children. Those who suffer from infertility are willing to try many things in order to have children. Those who face secondary infertility, who have children but are now experiencing difficulties having more children, look at their children and want them to have another sibling. Those who have genetic problems want to have healthy children. They seek
out new treatments in order to ensure that they will not pass on their genetic abnormalities to the next generation. Rosh Hashanah is a day to remember our relationship with God and to bring to mind those who could be forgotten. The Puah Institute is based in Jerusalem and helps couples from all over the world who are experiencing fertility problems. Offices in Jerusalem, New York, Los Angeles & Paris. Contact (Isr) 02-651-5050 (US) 718-336-0603 www.puahonline.org
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TORAH VEHA'ARETZ RABBI MOSHE BLOOM INSTITUTE BY en.toraland.org.il
Grapes, Wine and Kilei Hakerem #3: The Problem of Kilei Hakerem in the New Cultivation Method The approach of not harming fauna and flora is generally appropriate, but not when it comes to grapevines. The Torah commanded us not to interplant grains and legumes in a vineyard, and even obligated us to uproot any such crops and grapevines when grown together. This is a biblical injunction, “ ”פן תקדש המלאהwhich the Gemara explains as ““ ”פן תוקד אשlest it be liable for burning” (Kiddushin 56b). This situation poses a conflict between the universal value of preserving nature and
the Torah injunction against intercropping. This conflict raises several questions: Which types of crops are prohibited due to kilei hakerem? From which stage in the growth of cover crops and grapes does the prohibition begin? Is it prohibited to cultivate plants that sprout in the vineyard on their own? When should one uproot weeds in the vineyard and how should it be done? Is mowing them down sufficient? Are there halachically permissible solutions for keeping weeds or cover crops in the vineyard without transgressing the prohibition of kilei hakerem? Solutions for growing weeds in the vineyard
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What can we offer farmers interested in growing cover crops for professional reasons (drift prevention, reducing soil hardening, etc.) while still observing the halachot of kilei hakerem? There are certain types of annual legumes that are not grown today for human or animal consumption, and they can be sown in fields to receive the same benefit. Sowing one of these legumes without allowing weeds to sprout can be a viable solution for farmers (a list of legumes was made by Torah Veha’aretz Institute). Conclusion: The new trend of leaving weeds in the vineyard is prohibited according to most poskim and doing so poses the halachic risk of producing wine that is prohibited for drinking and benefit. This method is possible for orchards, but not for vineyards. Farmers interested in growing cover crops in the vineyard, for various reasons, should first consult with a competent halachic authority in the field.
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OU ISRAEL'S AMAR NINIO YOUTH CENTERS RACHELI Director of Education and Development
OU Israel Around the Country: Spotlight on Shaping the Lives of Youth in Ariel
A
fter almost six months of virtual programming due to Covid-19, the OU Israel Youth Center in Ariel prepares to welcome its kids back in a new and improved way. Many of the participants that attend OU Israel’s Youth Centers come from challenging backgrounds. They look up to their counselors and often refer to them as the “big brother” or “big sister” that cares about them and takes care of them. This week we’d like to highlight counselor Rivka Riklin-Hazan for taking it upon herself to renovate the Youth Center in Ariel so the youth have a nice, comfortable place to come to relax, learn and grow.
The primary goal of the OU Israel Youth Centers is to help these youth become proud, contributing members of Israeli society. We work with them, often from 6th grade through high school to instill within them Jewish values, selfconfidence and Zionistic pride. “The aim of the youth centers is to make members feel as comfortable at the club as they do at home so that they see the club as their second home. But that was not what the club felt like, being neglected, unattractive, and not very nice, We needed to brighten it up.” said Rivka. Thanks to Rivka’s initiative, the youth participants themselves are renovating the club alongside their counselors. So far they have whitewashed and repainted the club house and the club members and staff have turned their focus on repairing and improving the club exterior. Rivka’s husband’, Omer Hazan, is an alumnus of the club in Ariel and works in the field. Together they created
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the renovation plans. They began with a visit to the club, where they went through everything that needed renovation, drew up a detailed work plan with scheduling and discussed how the work would be done.
“Rivka poured all of her energy into the club and the club members, staff, and OU management were swept along by her enthusiasm,” said Ariel Branch Director Yaden Cohen. “It was incredible how she simply got everyone involved. Thanks to her and her husband, the club building is so much better and the club atmosphere has really improved and that’s just the first step towards making the club a much nicer, attractive, and welcoming place.” OU Director of Programs Chaim Pelzner said “It is heartwarming to see the young people and staff working so hard to improve the OU Youth Center in Ariel. It
always makes us happy to see this and we embrace all initiatives from the field, especially in these complex times, since the corona virus limits the opportunities of Israeli youth to find work and limits the available cultural and leisure activities.” OU Israel operates a network of youth centers in 21 cities in Israel, which cultivate young community leadership and provide a social, experiential, value-based environment where youth can grow and develop. OU Israel does this by employing professional youth counselors who organize a wide range of activities including, experiential and value-based activities, growth and personal strengths workshops, field trips, bar/bat-mitzvah programs, volunteering, chag preparations, etc.
CHESED FUND
In this pre-Rosh Hashana Corona period Help to make Rosh Hashanah happy and sweet for the 40 needy individuals who turn to us. Make checks (Israeli only) payable to "The Chesed Fund" and send to
ISRAEL CENTER CHESED FUND
att. Menachem Persoff POB 37015 Jerusalem 91370 or contact us at 050-570-1067 to make a bank transfer. Thanks to all who have helped during the Corona
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PIRKEI AVOT פרקי אבות SPECIAL SUMMER SERIES PEREK 5-6
Rabbi Yosef Ginsberg Co-Regional Director, NCSY Israel Rise From The Dust I have been privileged to be the CoRegional Director of NCSY Israel since its founding over 5 years ago. Over these years, I have met and gotten to know hundreds of wonderful teen olim throughout all of Israel, and have seen many of their lives changed. There is a story of one teen that stands out for me. As is known, one of the highlights of NCSY internationally is the ‘Shabbaton experience’ and the highlight of each Shabbaton for many of the participants is “ebbing,” the meditative singing and listening to words of inspiration just as the Shabbat comes to a close. It happened that a teen who has been in our program for years and had responded coldly to religious inspiration, came over to me, after ebbing, with watery eyes and a smile from ear to ear, and simply said, “Thank you.” I asked him, “What did it for you? What words inspired you? What song moved you? “ He responded, “Just being a part of something, it reminds me that I matter.” The Midrash Shmuel writes that most 60
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of Chapter 5 of Pirkei Avot is centered on the number 10. In six Mishnayot the chapter presents historical events of which there are 10: the ten utterances in which the world was created, the ten generations from Adam to Noach, the ten tests of Avraham, etc. The Maharal in many places stresses that the number ten is the only complete unit because, he says, there is no number larger than ten. After ten, we return to one (10+1, etc.). Therefore, any number less than 10 is lacking or incomplete, since there is the potential for more. According to the Maharal, this is the reason why a minyan is made up of ten or more. Hashem, who is the ultimate in perfection and completeness, wants His holy prayers to be associated with that which best represents perfection and completeness, the number 10.
Anything physical has the ability to be elevated beyond itself by bringing Hashem’s Torah and wisdom to it The Lubavitcher Rebbe points out that all of the examples of 10 described in Chapter 5 ultimately relate to the physical. He also points out that there is one important example of 10 missing: the
Ten Commandments. In its laws, the Ten Commandments represent all the laws of the Torah and the study of it. Chapter Six of Pirkei Avot, its final chapter, specifically discusses the greatness of Torah and offers teachings related to it. The Rebbe further explains that the Ten Commandments, and thus the Torah at large, transcend the physical. Not only do they transcend the physical, they also have the ability to elevate it. This teaches us that anything physical has the ability to be elevated beyond itself by bringing Hashem’s Torah and wisdom to it. This is the power of the Torah, and even more so, with a minyan. As the saying goes, “Nine kings don’t make a minyan, but ten farmers do.” The teen who came to me, moved more than he ever thought he would be, may not have even realized why he was so touched. However, he felt complete when he was part of a minyan, and with other people wanting the same goal of connection to Hashem. The Tefilah of the songs and the Torah of the words of inspiration, mixed with the power of Shabbat, gave him the ability to elevate himself, to transcend his physical being and realize he is much more than dust. In these challenging times, may we all find the ability to transcend our physical selves and realize our infinite potential.
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TOWARDS MEANINGFUL REBBETZIN ZEMIRA OZAROWSKI TEFILLA BY Director of OU Israel L’Ayla Women’s Initiative
מזמור שיר חנוכת הבית לדוד
highs and lows of life. We’ve gone through times where we were on top of the world, everything was amazing and life was perfect. And then we reached times where everything seemed terrible and we were down in the dumps. This is a rollercoaster of life, as we rise and fall, vacillating between success and failure, triumph and tragedy.
The Tefillot that he said are written in such a way that
I
was twelve years old and about to go on my first rollercoaster ride. I was nervous but excited. As the rollercoaster started up the track, I was exhilarated. As we gained momentum, the thrill and excitement grew. But then we reached the top and began to drop. The sheer horror I felt was enough to convince me never to step foot on a rollercoaster again. My stomach dropped and I felt this terrible feeling of doom. I had no control and I was crashing down with nothing to hold on to. As I screamed, we reached the bottom, only to begin the ascent again. This juxtaposition of two completely opposite emotions is what we call the Rollercoaster of Life. Every one of us has experienced the 62
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we can all find personal meaning in them Every morning, we begin the Pesukei d’Zimra section of Shacharit with Tehillim Perek 30, מזמור שיר חנוכת הבית לדוד, Dovid Hamelech starts off the mizmor thanking Hashem for all He is done for him. ארוממך ה' כי דליתני ולא שמחת איבי ליI will praise you Hashem because You raised me up and did not allow my enemies to rejoice over me ה' אלקי שועתי אליך ותרפאניHashem, I cried out to you and You healed me. ה' העלית מן שאול נפשי חייתני מיורדי בורHashem, you raised up my soul from the depths, You kept me alive so that I would not fall down into the pit. Dovid Hamelech doesn’t explain what specific issue he is being challenged
with at this time. He purposely leaves the mizmor vague, because it is meant to speak to all of us. Dovid experienced personal suffering in his life and he davened to Hashem to help him, but the Tefillot that he said are written in such a way that we can all find personal meaning in them and be able to use them in our personal times of need. Even the words that he uses here represent all types of issues – he speaks about enemies, and healing from sickness, and even about salvation from death. Interestingly, it is also unclear at which point Dovid Hamelech says this mizmor – was it when he was still in trouble, was it right when Hashem saved him, or was it much after the fact? This, again, allows us to utilize this Tefilla at all times, no matter what stage we are presently in. Dovid Hamelech calls out to the people surrounding him זמרו לה' חסידיו והודו לזכר קדשוAll of you should learn from my experiences – praise Hashem and thank Him. Why? Because of the lesson that I learned. בערב ילין בכי ולבקר רנה. – רגע באפו חיים ברצונו Your situation can change in an instant. Hashem’s anger is just for a moment but
His favor is for a lifetime. At night you might cry and things might feel terrible; You might be in complete despair. But ultimately, in the morning, you will sing; Things will get better. Dovid Hamelech goes on to talk about the false illusions we live. אני אמרתי בשלוי בל אמוט לעולםWhen things are going well, we feel like we are on top of the world, everything is good, and it will always continue that way.
הסתרת פניך הייתי נבהל: But Hashem you showed me. You hid Your face from me and suddenly I was completely terrified! I suddenly realized I am nothing without You. אליך ה' אקרא ואל ה' אתחנן: And so I turned to You and I cried out מה בצע בדמי ברדתי אל שחת היודך עפר היגיד אמתך What is the point of me dying? Can the dust (my decayed body) praise You? שמע ה' חנני ה' היה עזר לי: Hashem please listen to me and help me!! הפכת מספדי למחול לי פתחת שקי תאזרני שמחה: And then you changed my mourning into dance, removed my sackcloth and girded me with happiness.
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I suddenly understood that Hashem has the capacity to raise me up or to bring me down. He is responsible for the rollercoaster of life. And once I understood this message, then I realized that my purpose in this world is למען יזמרך כבוד ולא ידם ה' אלקי לעולם אודךto continuously praise Hashem ולא ידוםand to never be silent. Whether I am at a high in life or a low in life, I need to be constantly praising Hashem and recognizing His hand in this world. It’s not only in hard times that we should call out to Hashem, and it’s not only right after we’ve seen His salvation that we should praise Him. We need to be in constant contact. We need to remind ourselves that no matter where we are in the rollercoaster of life, Hashem is running the show, and knows where the train is headed. He has a plan and we need to be ceaselessly singing His praises through thick and thin. We
cannot become complacent when things are good; Rather we need to remember that Hashem is behind every success we’ve achieved and our serenity is only because of Him. Hashem sometimes needs to bring us down in order that we can cry out to Him and then praise Him when He brings us back up. If we can remember to recognize Hashem’s greatness from the start, He might not need to send us on this loop. This is a very fitting opening for Pesukei d’Zimra. In this section of the Tefilla, we will sing out praise after praise for Hashem, as we go through many chapters of Tehillim. Each morning when we daven, we may be at a different point in the rollercoaster of life. This introduction comes to tell us that no matter where we’re at, it’s always a good time to focus on Hashem’s greatness and to recognize all that He does for us, in every single stage of our lives.
Cut and paste into your siddur This is a very fitting opening for Pesukei d’Zimra. In this section of the Tefilla, we will sing out praise after praise for Hashem, as we go through many chapters of Tehillim. Every one of us has experienced the highs and lows of life. We’ve gone through times where we were on top of the world, everything was amazing and life was perfect. And then we reached times where everything seemed terrible and we were down in the dumps. This is a rollercoaster of life, as we rise and fall, vacillating between success and failure, triumph and tragedy. Each morning when we daven, we may be at a different point in the rollercoaster of life. This introduction comes to tell us that no matter where we’re at, it’s always a good time to focus on Hashem’s greatness and to recognize all that He does for us, in every single stage of our lives.
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Real Life Rescues
Listen To Your Intuition And Save Lives
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Last Shabbat, a group of children were playing in the family yard when a four-year-old was struck on the head by a hard object. The child lost consciousness for a couple of minutes and the alarmed parents called emergency dispatch for help. Being one of the closest responders Osnat Reuven, a United Hatzalah volunteer EMT, was notified about the incident and quickly rushed to the address. In spite of Osnat being close by, another EMT arrived before her. He assured Osnat that her help was not needed and that she could return home, but Osnat’s intuition and her dedication to her patients caused her to stay. The child, after regaining consciousness, was panicking and refused to speak to the EMT. When he tried to monitor the child he would scream and run to his mother's arms. Osnat quickly noticed that the little boy had Down’s Syndrome and realized that this required special treatment. Sitting down on the floor, Osnat began to play with the child, distracting him with toys and fun games. The child, fascinated and entertained, was soon occupied so that Osnat was able to check basic vital signs and assess the child’s level of consciousness. There was no significant bleeding, but the boy required examination at a hospital to check for a concussion. Osnat continued to play with the toddler until the ambulance arrived. Later that same week, Osnat received a call at 1:30 a.m. regarding a crash between a car and a tractor. When Osnat arrived some of the victims were already being treated. But a feeling in her stomach was telling her that there was more to be done. Osnat surveyed the scene and saw that the back window of the car was smashed, although the impact had been from the front side of the car. The accident had occurred on an unlit road, and the area was extremely dark, so Osnat used her flashlight and hurried to examine the car and the surrounding area A quick search revealed a motionless figure lying in a ditch. It was a two-year-old child. He hadn’t been in a booster seat. He had been thrown through the window on impact. Osnat called for the other EMTs as she began to perform a field assessment. The child was unconscious and severely injured after sustaining a significant blow to his head. The EMTs worked rapidly to administer lifesaving oxygen, immobilize the little boy and bandaged his bleeding wounds. A long twenty minutes later, an intensive care ambulance arrived and the injured child was taken to the trauma center. When reflecting on both of the incidents Osnat said “You have to be persistent, strong, and listen to your intuition in order to get things done right. I listened to my intuition and that enabled me to save a life today.’” OU ISRAEL CENTER
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RAKEL BERENBAUM PORTION FROM BY Contributor, Torah Tidbits THE PORTION
Together, Alone, But Together
O
ur portion begins “Today you are all standing before God, your Godyour leaders, your tribes, your elders, your law enforcers, every man of Israel. Your children, your wives…” (29:9-10). On the last day of his life Moshe gathered every member of the Jewish people and taught them the concept of ARVUT, responsibility for one another. We are all in this together. Each Jew must try and help other Jews to observe the Torah. There are many mitzvot that we do with other Jews. The Korban Pesach is eaten by a whole family together. Happy and also sad events during a person’s lifewedding, brit mila, mourners Kadishare performed with at least a quorum, which is also needed three times a day when gathering together to pray.
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God has instructed us to do many things with others. B’rov Am Hadrat Melech – when more people are together it honors the King, God even more. But this year, with all the social distancing requirements instituted by health ministries around the world due to the Coronavirus, many individuals have been very much alone. People, many for the first time in their lives, had the Seder by themselves. Some people have not been able to go to any of the social places they used to frequent, and no one is sure exactly what format will be allowed for the prayers for the High Holidays.
Just because we must physically distance, doesn’t mean we need to socially distance from others The current pandemic has turned us from a community with many social opportunities to one with numerous people spending much time in solitude. Many researchers have found that isolation can cause neurophysiological and psychosocial disruptions which can have serious implications for the health and wellbeing of individuals – increasing the risk of such things as cognitive de-
cline, depression and even early mortality. We don’t need current research to teach us that “ It is not good for man to be alone,” as God taught us that already in Bereshit (2:18). But what can we do living in a time with a pandemic that doesn’t seem to be going away, and social distancing requirements that leave many people cut off from their community, neighbors and family? Many people have no one to talk to for days. I think that there are things that we can do. We can start by renaming the health guidelines to “physical” distancing and not “social” distancing. It is true we can’t be physically close to lots of people, but we can still maintain a connection with people who may be stuck at home. Just because we must physically distance, doesn’t mean we need to socially distance from others. We must put more effort and creativity into coming up with ways to practice “social closeness” and “friendly connections”. Especially now, before the high holidays, when we are trying to grab as many mitzvot as we can, there are many seemingly small things we can do to connect with others that will have a major positive impact on their feelings of loneliness, health and quality of life. It might also impact positively on ourselves. For example, take a few minutes and make a list of all the people you know who might not have opportunities to see or talk to anyone. People who live close and people who live far. Call them up
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and ask how they are doing. If you have more time you can call them on a regular basis – or offer to learn something with them over the phone. There are many people now in bidud – when you are doing your own shopping offer to pick up something for them as well. Maybe there’s a neighbor who needs help to learn how to use zoom, a few lessons could open up a whole world for them. Start a shul parsha learning group on zoom where each person prepares a part of the parsha.
but they do like honey cookies, so below is a recipe. If you like plain honey cookies then leave out the optional spices – if you like your honey cookies with a bit of a twist add any or all of the spices. Experiment with what you like best. You can share some of the cookies with a neighbor who will be all alone for the holiday. Wishing everyone a Sweet new year.
Little things mean a lot and can bring back the feeling of social connectivity and ARVUT and get us ready for Rosh Hashana.
3/4 cup oil
RECIPE There is a custom to eat things with honey such as honey cake on Rosh Hashana. No one in my house really likes honey cake,
HONEY COOKIES 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup honey 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla 2 3/4 cups flour 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 1/2-1 tsp cinnamon (optional) 1/2 tsp ginger (optional)
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1/4 tsp pepper (optional) Demerara sugar, for rolling Mix the oil, honey, and sugar until smooth. Add in the egg and vanilla and mix until combined. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt and optional ingredients of your choice. Add to the liquid ingredients. You can refrigerate the dough for a few minutes if you want to make it easier to shape. Shape the dough into small balls and roll in the demerara sugar. Bake at 180 C on a parchment lined baking sheet for about 10 minutes till golden.
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DIVREI TORAH FROM YESHIVOT AND SEMINARIES Torah Tidbits is proud to highlight the many outstanding Rabbis and teachers that lead the various Yeshivot and Seminaries here in Israel.
TIFERET, RAMAT BEIT SHEMESH Tiferet is a daati leumi post high school seminary in Ramat Beit Shemesh
Mrs. Leba Schneider Director of Students “ושב ה’ אלקיך את שבותך ורחמך ושב וקבצך מכל העמים )ג:אשר הפיצך ה’ אלקיך שמה” (דברים ל “Then Hashem, your G-d, will restore your fortunes and take you back in love. He will bring you back from all the peoples where Hashem has scattered you” Rambam writes in his mishna torah that this passuk is the Torah source for the coming of Mashiach. The following question is asked by the Brisker Rav; if you look at the ani maamins, the 13 principles of faith of the Rambam, the wording of the principle about Mashiach is very unique:
ואף על פי,אני מאמין באמונה שלמה בביאת המשיח אם כל זה אחכה לו בכל יום שיבוא,שיתמהמה “I believe in the coming of mashiach……. and even though it delays, I will wait every day for it to come.” The Brisker Rav asks: Why don’t we add 70
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a philosophical question and caveat to any of the other ani maamins of the Rambam? For example, when it talks about belief in Hashem’s system of reward and punishment, why don’t we add “and even though we see tzaddikim suffer in this world or evil people succeed in this world, I still believe”; when talking about Hashem having no body or physical image, why don’t we add “and even though there are anthropomorphic terms, such as G-d’s hand, in the Torah I still believe”.
The Rambam says we need to be in a constant state of readiness for the mashiach He answers that the caveat that is
included in the principle of faith about Mashiach is not a philosophical question, rather a necessary element of our faith. The Rambam says in his Mishna Torah (melachim 11:1) “Anyone who is not waiting for Mashiach’s arrival…..denies the Torah of Moshe Rabbeinu’’. It is not enough to believe in Mashiach and his arrival, rather it is also a requirement to be in a constant state of waiting for Mashiach. An image comes to mind, I was once in a chabad house and next to the door was a beautiful tambourine with ribbons and painted with the word mashiach. I asked the rebbetzin and she said that every day she is ready to greet the Mashiach like Miriam and the other women celebrated when we left mitzrayim. So the Rambam says we need to be in a constant state of readiness for the mashiach too! This is also reminiscent of the gemara in Shabbos 31A, That talks about man’s day of judgement after 120 years in this world. The gemara states that the soul will be asked a series of questions such as did you act fairly in business, did you have children, and “ ’’ציפית לישועהdid you actively anticipate and yearn for Mashiach.
We must believe that גלות, exile is a distortion and we hope and pray for the day that our nation can exist in an optimal state, which can only occur through the coming of Mashiach. That optimal state is elevated; it is an existence of a universal clear presence of Hashem, a time of healing, repair, an end to war and corruption. When he has a daily consciousness of this, Man can expect more from himself-to strive for personal perfection and change his perspective, to recognize the שקר, falseness, of this exiled world and not to be drawn to its “trappings”. As we approach Rosh Hashana, and the calls of the shofar are in the air, we must remember the famous prophecy of Yeshayahu (27:13)
״והיה ביום ההוא יתקע בשופר גדול ובאו האובדים בארץ אשור והנדחים בארץ מצרים והשתחוו לה׳ בהר הקודש ”בירושלים May we be blessed with the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days! Shabbat Shalom
Rav Moshe Shapira explains the Rambam’s insistence on longing daily for Mashiach as follows:
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THE DAILY BY SIVAN RAHAV-MEIR PORTION
As We Approach the Finish Line ּאמר ֶ ֹ ַוי.ׂר ֵאל ָ ִש ְ ֹשה ַוי ְַד ֵּבר ֶאת ַה ְּד ָב ִרים ָה ֵא ֶּלה ֶאל ָּכל י ׁ ֶ ַוֵי ֶּל ְך מ ׁשנָה ָאנ ִֹכי ַה ּיוֹם לֹא או ַּכל עוֹד ָ ׂרים ִ ְע ְש ֶ ֲל ֶהם ֶּבן ֵמ ָאה ו ֵא .ָל ֵצאת ו ְָלבוֹא וַה׳ ָא ַמר ֵא ַלי לֹא ַת ֲעבֹר ֶאת ַהַי ְּר ֵּדן ַה ֶּזה And Moses went, and he spoke the following words to all of Israel. And he said to them, “Today I am one hundred and twenty years old. I can no longer go or come, and the Lord said to me, ‘You shall not cross this Jordan.’” (Devarim 31:1–2) Vayelekh is the shortest parasha in the entire Torah and it is always read at the end of the year, as we approach Rosh HaShana, the New Year. Rabbi Berel Wein explains that this is no coincidence. We are not the only ones who are in an introspective mood at this time; Moses also reviews his life in his final days. The ends of the year, the Torah, and Moses’ life are all interconnected.
As the year draws to the end and we are engaged in reviewing our actions, we can look to Moses’ speech for guidance in this process. Moses speaks frankly and expresses his feelings. He talks of his disappointments and successes and calls on the Children of Israel to keep the Torah and to continually reaccept it. This is the essence of this time of the year during the months of Elul and Tishrei. It is the annual opportunity for an honest assessment of what is good and bad in our lives. If necessary, it is the chance to turn a new page, to correct, and to refresh. This is not a time to be depressed; rather we should be optimistic and look for our winning and strong points. One of the most positive comments I have heard about the month of Elul tells us, “When you want to correct yourself, it is very important to know what your bad qualities are, but it is far more important to know your positive qualities.”
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THE NEW OLD PATH BY RABBI BENJI LEVY CEO Of Mosaic United
Lessons in Leadership
G
reat leaders do not lead in a vacuum. They are part of a train of transmission. They are beholden to a people or to a cause that came before them and that will outlast them. Therefore, ensuring a smooth transition for one’s successor is one of the most important tasks that a leader can undertake. Following Moses’ request for a successor, God commands him to call Joshua and bring him to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting so that he can instruct him as leader (Deut. 31:14). Why is Joshua selected as Moses’ successor? Which qualities of leadership has he displayed? Our first encounter with Joshua occurs when the nation of Amalek, the eternal arch-nemesis of the Jewish people, launch a surprise attack against the Israelites in the desert (Ex. 17:8-16). When the Israelites most desperately need a military leader, Moses turns to Joshua. Joshua has never previously fought in a war, much less led troops into battle. He most likely has never even seen armed conflict or studied military strategy, yet he accepts the mission and 74
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fulfils it with spectacular efficiency. Displaying absolute dedication, this impromptu army general neither falters nor hesitates, but simply does what is necessary in the service of God and his people. Three thousand years later, Zionist pioneer Joseph Trumpeldor channelled this same spirit when he famously declared: You need a wheel? Here I am. A nail, a screw, a block? Here take me. You need a man to till the soil? I’m ready. A soldier? I am here. Policeman, doctor, lawyer, artist, teacher, water carrier? Here I am. I have no form… I am a servant of Zion. Ready to do everything, not bound to do anything. I have only one aim – creation. (Note from Joseph Trumpeldor to Ze’ev Jabotinsky, 1917). Perhaps the most significant episode of Joshua’s pre-leadership career comes when he is selected as one of the twelve spies to go and scout out the Holy Land, and to bring a report back to Moses and the Jewish people (Num. 13, 14). Ten scouts return and sow seeds of fear and discouragement within the hearts of the nation by attesting to the seeming impossibility of conquering the land. The people are demoralised and become rebellious. Even Moses is rendered helpless. But in a stunning act of defiant
leadership, Joshua exhorts the people not to surrender to panic and cowardice. Together with Caleb, the only other faithful spy, he reminds the people: ‘You should not fear the people of the land, for they are our prey… God is with us, do not fear them!’ (14:9). Placing principles above popularity and peer pressure, Joshua epitomises the notion of ‘in a place where there is no person, strive to be someone’ (Mishna, Tractate Avot 2:6).
This practice instils a sense of humility in the would-be leader Joshua’s eligibility for the role of Moses’ successor is further concretised by his display of another leadership quality. Throughout history, and until today, if a person wishes to become a rabbi, it is not enough that he learns all the texts and masters all the theoretical knowledge. He must place himself at the service of a well-established rabbi, to shadow his activities, observe his character traits and appreciate his decision-making processes. This way, the would-be rabbi learns values that cannot simply be learned from a text. This ethos of shimmush, ‘service’ in preparation for leadership, is necessitated by the fundamental belief in the importance of spiritual role models, and the notion that Torah must be passed down through living human beings from generation to generation, from leader to leader. This practice instils a sense of humility in the would-be leader. He comes
to appreciate the awesome responsibility that lies ahead of him, of walking in the footsteps of giants. Joshua develops such a close connection with Moses that the Torah goes into an unusual level of detail describing his activities while Moses is in the Tent of Meeting. Joshua is portrayed as being steadfastly loyal to his master, ‘and his assistant, Joshua son of Nun, never departed from inside the tent’ (Ex. 33:11). Joshua spends his entire life emulating Moses, his master, attempting to live up to the towering standards set by our greatest prophet. We find in the text a litany of hints as to why Joshua is chosen as the successor. The Torah is in effect laying out for us a road map for successful Jewish leadership, more relevant today than ever before: Display absolute commitment to the mission. Be ready to jump in at any time and to take on any of the necessary tasks, as the cause is always more important than your own. Be prepared to take a stand against the majority, as ethics are more important than esteem. Invest time and effort in learning from great masters, for in observing their practice you will learn lessons of life and leadership that are more valuable than anything learned from a text. With these messages, Joshua takes the first steps of his leadership odyssey. Ultimately, he leads the Jewish people into the place where Moses himself did not merit to go – the Land of Israel. Stay in touch with @RabbiBenji and learn more at www.RabbiBenji.com OU ISRAEL CENTER
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TORAH 4 TEENS BY TEENS NCSY ISRAEL Gavriel Novick, Director of Regional Development, NCSY Israel Sharing Our Passion for Torah Parshat Vayeilech One of the last mitzvot in the Torah is known as Hakhel. Hakhel requires the entire nation to gather together every seven years in the Beit Hamikdash and hear the king read portions of the Torah. The event was a magnificent opportunity to witness the centrality of Torah and inspire all to follow the path it sets forth. Think of the siyum hashas, just bigger, much bigger! The pasuk says “Assemble the people: men, women, and children.” But the word used for children is not the common “yeladim” or “banim” but rather “taf” which refers to small children, babies and even infants. Why are we required to bring such small children to this gathering? Infants certainly won’t understand what is happening. Rashi quotes the gemera Chagiga that children would come “to provide a reward for those who brought them.” What does that mean? Are they simply being rewarded because they need to shlep more? 76
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I remember learning in high school from Rabbi Avi Haar a beautiful lesson. He gave an analogy to a sports event where one can see parents with their infants and toddlers. Many parents have dressed their youngest children in the colors of their favorite team, maybe even given them a jersey or a cap. Why is this? The children don’t understand the meaning of it. Yet it is a representation of the parents’ passion and commitment to the team. When you are passionate about something, you want to bring your children along. Doing so shows how important this cause is to you. That is why the parents get extra reward for bringing their young children to hakhel. At NCSY Israel we are committed to sharing the Torah’s messages with the next generation. Torah is deeply important to us, therefore, let’s share that passion with our children!
Ari Emmer 11th Grade, Chashmonaim On Our Path In Parashat Nitzavim, Moshe Rabbeinu conveys to Bnei Yisrael a teaching that Chazal were puzzled by. “For this commandment which I command thee this day is not a wonder
unto thee: for the thing is very nigh unto thee, in the mouth of thy mouth, and in the heart of thy heart.” - Chapter 30, Pesukim 11-14. Rabbi Zvi Me’liska explains in his book of morality - “The Righteous and the Good,” that if a person follows the path of the Torah, then he keeps the commandments of God in everything he does - even by eating and sleeping. After all, things like this (not necessarily eating and sleeping, also playing / traveling for example) help a person work better. If a person needs rest (of course - only he knows if it’s necessary or out of laziness), it will be a mitzvah if he rests. And this is implied in the Pasuk we read:
בפיך ובלבבך לעשתו- even when you eat in your mouth, [in your heart] (in the thoughts of your heart) it is for heaven’s sake, to do the commandments. The Torah is teaching us to do even these ordinary and trivial things[for the sake of Hashem. In this way we will earn a lot of reward and perhaps most importantly fill our lives with meaning and true happiness. -----------------------------------NCSY Israel is the premier organization in Israel, dedicated to connect, inspire, empower, and help teen olim with "Klita" to the Land of Israel by encouraging passionate Judaism through Torah and Tradition. Find out more at israel.ncsy.org
SHIUR SPONSORS Wednesday, September 9 - Rabbi Manning’s shiur is sponsored by Donna and Stanley Dalnekoff to commemorate their golden wedding anniversary. Stanley specifically wishes to thank Donna for having put up with him for 50 wonderful years together. Wednesday, September 9 - Rabbi Manning’s shiur is sponsored by Rachel Steiner in memory of her mother-in-law פריווע פנינה בת יואל הלוי ע”ה on her 31st yahrzeit - 19 Elul .She was an unforgettable, compassionate woman famous for her generosity, who profoundly affected many lives. Even when she could barely walk, she got up early every morning to pick up other senior citizens to keep the minyan of the Young Israel of Parkchester, in the East Bronx going. Thursday, September 10 - Rabbi Kahn’s shiur is sponsored by Dr. Joseph R. Bensimon in loving memory of his dear brother, Aharon Chai ben Saadia z”l whose 7th yahrzeit was 15 Elul Sunday, September 13 - Rabbi Aharon Adler’s shiur is sponsored in memory of Rabbi Adler’s father David Adler z”l on the 6th Yahrzeit - 24 Elul Monday, September 14 - Pearl Borow’s shiur is sponsored by Sheila Jacobson, in memory of her sister Chaya Sarah bat Yehoshua a”h and her sister in law Rivka Basya bat Avraham Mordechai a”h Tuesday, September 15 - Rabbi Goldin’s shiur is sponsored by Ceil and David Olivestone in loving memory of Ceil’s father - Josef Weinberg, Yosef Reuven ben Meir Mordechai z”l Wednesday, September 16 - Rabbi Manning’s Shiur is sponsored by Lilian and Maurice Brodie to celebrate the Bar Mitzvah of their Grandson Elisha Shlomo Greenspan OU ISRAEL CENTER
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Boker Limud on Tanakh and Jewish Thought Join our virtual learning community - Mondays Jewish Thought Shiurim in Hebrew
Tanakh Shiurim in Hebrew
Rachelle Sprecher Fraenkel
ד”ר יפה גיסר - עיונים במדרשי רבה מדרשים מאירים לפרשות השבוע
ד”ר יושי פרג’ון ,מסע בעקבות מלכים נשים ועבדים במקרא
Rav Aviad Tabory
הרב חיים נבון – ""וביקשתם משם הרב סולובייצ'יק
הרב שמעון קליין -מעשה בת שבע ותשובת דוד בראי עולמו הפנימי
Rav Alex Israel
הרב חיים נבון הפילוסופיה של ההלכה
הרב יעקב מדן ספר בראשית
Rabbanit Shani Taragin
ד”ר חנה ריקלין נתן בין הרב קוק לחסידות
הרב יעקב מדן ספר שמואל
Time
Shiurim in English
09:30-10:30
Halachic and Hashkafic Issues Stemming from Tanachic sources
10:45-11:45
Halachic Responses to the History of the State of Israel
12:00-13:00
Sefer Melakhim: Torn in Two
13:15-14:15
Wisdom Writings: Kohelet, Mishlei and Iyov
The Boker Limud program will take place every Monday online via live Zoom. All lessons will be recorded so you can view them later at your convenience. If health regulations allow us to resume in-person classes, the classes will be given at Hechal Shlomo in Jerusalem and will include the option to participate via Zoom for individuals who are not able, or not comfortable, attending in-person. • Men and women are welcome • Advance registration is required • Starts after the chagim
ds
tion en Early registrasday this Tue כ"ו 15.9.20 באלול
. לחנך. לדעת.הרצוג For more information, call 02-9937337 or visit www.herzog.ac.il
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RAPHAEL RECANATI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL at IDC HERZLIYA
HIGH HOLY DAYS: SWEET NEW YEAR AGENDA FOR RAPHAEL RECANATI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL STUDENTS AT IDC HERZLIYA
LIVE IN ISRAEL, STUDY IN ENGLISH For more information: Algom Ben-Horin
Social and Cultural Director at the Raphael Recanati International School algom.ben-horin@idc.ac.il
Josh Botwinick
Mizrachi OU-JLIC jbotwinick@gmail.com
• 15/9 - Pre-Rosh Hashana Shiur - Getting into the mindset of the High Holy Days • Rosh Hashana - Optional Tefilah on campus, Meals will be distributed (strictly according to Ministry of Health regulations) • Rosh Hashana Day 1 - Tefilah, Rosh Hashana Seder picnic outside the dorms, Rosh Hashana discussion Blowing your Mind: The Meaning Behind the Shofar (strictly according to Ministry of Health regulations) • Rosh Hashana Day 2 - Tefilah and shofar • Yom Kippur - Tefilot • Sukkot - Pre-chag arba’at haminim pickup, Tefilot on chag • Sunday Chol Hamoed - Pizza in the Hut! Get together in the Sukkah on campus (strictly according to Ministry of Health regulations) • Tuesday Chol Hamoed - Hike in the Carmel mountains • Wednesday Chol Hamoed - Sushi and Shiur in the Sukkah • Shabbat Chol Hamoed - Tefilot together, Hakafot on campus
Margot Botwinick
Mizrachi OU-JLIC margotbotwinick@gmail.com
www.rris.idc.ac.il OU ISRAEL CENTER
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ur o Y e k a M o t g in k Loo Year Meaningful?
Come join us for our internationally recognized
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